Afrobeats star Simi, whose real name is Simisola Kosoko, has generated widespread discussion online after expressing support for severe punishment for rapists.
According to reports by Naijalog, Nigeria has recently witnessed a surge in reported sexual assault cases across several regions, sparking national concern.
Reacting to the situation on Tuesday night, Simi made an emotional appeal to both citizens and authorities to take stronger action against sexual violence targeting women.
“I’m sickkk of this. Stop raping women. They need to castrate rapists and burn them,” she wrote in a fierce X post.
Her statement quickly triggered mixed reactions online, with some people arguing that similar harsh punishment should also apply to individuals who make false rape accusations.
In response, Simi clarified that her focus was strictly on supporting victims of sexual assault, not those falsely accused, a clarification that further fueled the online debate.
Despite criticism from some male followers, the singer explained that her stance comes from personal observation, stating that nearly every woman she knows has experienced sexual assault at some point in their lives.
She also pushed back against arguments that discussions about sexual violence should be limited because of false accusations, insisting the focus should remain on protecting victims.
“How many of your friends have actually assaulted women as vibes?? Women are terrified to go out. Women in their homes are not safe either. Ask your sisters. Ask your female friends and your girlfriends. Ask your wives. We’re not all crazy. Stop raping women,” she added.
Simi further called on men to take responsibility by holding other men accountable, arguing that silence and inaction among men can create an environment that allows sexual violence to continue.
Simi Sparks Debate With Call for Tougher Punishment for Rapists
