By Peter Omopo
The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has said it cannot take formal legal action against singer Simi over resurfaced tweets from 2012 without testimony or evidence from alleged victims.
The tweets, which referenced interactions with toddlers at her mother’s daycare, drew public scrutiny after Simi spoke out against rape, prompting accusations of hypocrisy.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Morning Brief, DSVA Executive Secretary Lola Vivour-Adeniyi said the agency is limited by legal and procedural requirements. “We cannot act like we have not seen these things. We have a duty to at least commence a preliminary investigation,” she said, adding that “it’s going to be very difficult to prosecute the lady without a survivor being present.”
Vivour-Adeniyi urged any potential victims to come forward so the agency could document statements and determine the next steps.
Simi has responded to the controversy, saying her tweets were innocent and misinterpreted. She explained that she was 23 at the time, helping at her mother’s daycare while building her music career. “I have always spoken against rape and sexual assault, even before you knew I existed. It’s not a costume I’m wearing, it’s who I am,” she said.
The DSVA emphasized that without corroborating evidence or cooperation from alleged victims, formal prosecution cannot proceed.
