Simi DSVA investigation may begin, but prosecution is unlikely without a survivor reporting alleged sexual offences
The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency has indicated it may commence a preliminary investigation into resurfaced tweets linked to singer Simi, while cautioning that prosecution would be difficult without a survivor coming forward.
Also read: NAPTIP to investigate alleged child abuse at singer Simi’s mum’s daycare
Speaking on Channels Television Morning Brief, the agency’s Executive Secretary, Lola Vivour-Adeniyi, said the matter cannot be ignored.
“For the Simi case, we cannot act like we have not seen this case. And so we have a duty to at least commence preliminary investigation,” Lola Vivour-Adeniyi stated.
She stressed that any criminal action would depend on the presence of a complainant. “Is there any survivor? Because the truth of the matter is that it’s going to be very difficult to prosecute the lady without a survivor being present, a victim of whatever it is,” she said.
The nature of the alleged offence would also influence the direction of the investigation. “Is it sexual abuse? Is it defilement? So it’s to start the process,” Lola Vivour-Adeniyi added.
The DSVA executive urged anyone potentially affected to formally report to authorities.
“Encourage anybody who has, who was allegedly sexually assaulted by Simi to please come forward and ensure that their statement is taken. And then we know where we’re going to end on the matter,” she said.
The remarks follow widespread debate on social media after old posts attributed to the singer resurfaced, with calls for an official probe balanced against concerns over the legal challenges in the absence of a complainant.
Also read: FG responds as NAPTIP moves to probe resurfaced tweets linked to Simi
The agency’s position highlights the legal requirement for a victim’s testimony in sexual offence cases, signalling that while preliminary steps may begin, the progression of the case will ultimately hinge on whether an alleged survivor submits a formal statement.
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
