By Prosper Mene
The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has formally referred the ongoing controversy surrounding resurfaced old tweets allegedly posted by popular Nigerian singer Simi (Simisola Kosoko) to the Lagos State Commissioner of Police for a preliminary investigation.
This development was announced by the agency’s Executive Secretary, Lola Vivour-Adeniyi, during an interview on Channels Television on Thursday, February 26, 2026. The DSVA stated that it could not ignore the public allegations and circulating claims, prompting the escalation for further scrutiny.
The controversy comes from tweets reportedly dating back to 2012 and 2014, shared by Simi during a period when she was assisting at her mother’s creche (daycare center). Some social media users have interpreted the posts as inappropriate or suggestive in relation to minors under her care, leading to widespread backlash, accusations of misconduct, and calls for accountability, often dubbed “Simi Gates” online.
Vivour-Adeniyi emphasized that while the agency is taking the matter seriously, any potential prosecution would face significant challenges without a complainant or survivor coming forward to provide direct evidence or testimony. She urged anyone with credible information or personal experience related to the allegations to report it formally.
The referral follows days of intense online debate, which intensified after Simi recently spoke out strongly against rape and sexual violence in separate comments, prompting critics to dig up and recirculate her older posts for context or contradiction.
Simi has previously addressed the resurfaced tweets, clarifying that they were misinterpreted, lacked any perverse intent, and were from a different time in her life. She has denied any wrongdoing and noted that some old posts were deleted to protect her family amid the scrutiny.
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has also responded to related public concerns about potential child abuse in daycare settings, encouraging confidential reporting of any verifiable claims.
The case shows broader discussions around child protection, social media accountability, and the challenges of revisiting decade-old online statements in today’s digital landscape. No formal charges have been announced at this stage, and authorities are expected to conduct a thorough preliminary review.
