Nigerian singer and songwriter Simi has ignited widespread debate online after issuing a strong statement on sexual assault and rape in Nigeria, calling for greater accountability and urging society not to silence survivors.
The singer shared her thoughts on social media amid renewed public anger over recent assault cases reported in parts of the country, including Ogun and Lagos states.
In her post, Simi expressed alarm at how pervasive sexual violence has become, revealing that nearly every woman she knows personally has experienced some form of assault.
“You can’t think it’s okay to shut people up from speaking up about assault because some people lie,” she wrote.
While acknowledging that false accusations can occur and should carry consequences, the singer stressed that such instances are rare compared to the widespread reality of sexual violence.
“How many men do you know that have been falsely accused of rape?” she asked. “How many women do you know that have been sexually assaulted?”
Ending her message with a blunt and urgent appeal, she declared: “STOP RAPING WOMEN!!”
Simi’s comments were sparked by recent cases that trended online, including reports of an alleged assault involving a stranger in Ogun State and separate allegations currently under scrutiny in Lagos. A claim by a TikTok user further intensified conversations, prompting debates around due process, evidence, and the broader culture surrounding sexual violence.
The award-winning artiste pushed back against arguments that discussions about assault should be toned down because of the possibility of false claims. According to her, silencing survivors out of fear of rare false accusations only deepens the culture of impunity.
Her remarks quickly gained traction, drawing thousands of reactions and comments. Many supporters commended her for using her platform to spotlight what they described as a painful but necessary national conversation. Others, however, argued that conversations about false accusations should not be dismissed, noting that they can also have serious consequences.
Advocacy groups have long maintained that sexual violence remains a major concern in Nigeria, with many cases going unreported due to fear, stigma, and limited trust in the justice system.
Highlighting the daily realities women face, Simi said women often feel unsafe not only in public spaces but sometimes even in their own homes. She urged people to engage directly with the women in their lives to better understand the scale of the problem.
“Ask the women around you,” she implied, encouraging empathy and awareness rather than denial.
The unfolding online debate underscores the growing urgency of conversations around rape culture, consent, and accountability in Nigeria. It also reflects the influential role public figures continue to play in shaping national discourse.
As reactions continue to pour in, Simi’s intervention has once again drawn attention to the lived experiences of women and the pressing need for safer communities and stronger systems of justice.
