Nigerian Afrobeats star Simi has ignited widespread debate on social media after publicly advocating severe penalties for rapists amid growing concerns over sexual violence in the country.
The singer, born Simisola Kosoko, took to X on Tuesday night to express outrage over what many have described as a surge in reported rape and sexual assault cases across Nigeria. Recent weeks have seen multiple allegations surface in different parts of the country, intensifying public discourse around women’s safety and justice for victims.
In an emotionally charged post, Simi condemned sexual violence and called for drastic punitive measures against offenders. “I’m sickkk of this. Stop raping women. They need to castrate rapists and burn them,” she wrote, reflecting her frustration over the recurring reports of abuse.
Her remarks quickly went viral, drawing mixed reactions from users. While many supporters applauded her for speaking out and amplifying the voices of victims, others criticized her endorsement of capital punishment. Some commentators argued that if such strict penalties were to be implemented, similar consequences should apply to individuals who make false rape accusations.
Responding to the backlash, the singer clarified that her stance was firmly centered on protecting victims of sexual assault, not defending false claims. She insisted that conversations about rare false accusations should not be used to silence or diminish advocacy for survivors.
Addressing critics directly, Simi maintained that the prevalence of sexual assault is deeply personal and widespread. According to her, nearly every woman within her circle has experienced some form of sexual misconduct at some point in their lives. She emphasized that women often live in fear—both in public spaces and in their own homes.
The singer also urged men to play a more active role in addressing the issue, calling on them to hold their peers accountable and challenge behaviors that enable abuse. She argued that silence and complicity among men contribute to an environment where perpetrators feel emboldened.
The controversy has since fueled broader discussions online about justice, accountability, and the appropriate legal response to sexual crimes in Nigeria, with many calling for systemic reforms and stronger enforcement of existing laws to protect women.