Nigerian Afrobeats star Simi has ignited widespread reactions online after demanding the harshest possible penalties for rapists amid growing concerns about sexual violence in the country.
Her comments come at a time when reports of sexual assault cases have surfaced across different parts of Nigeria, fueling public anxiety and outrage. Reacting via her X (formerly Twitter) account on Tuesday night, the singer did not hold back her frustration.
“I’m sickkk of this. Stop raping women. They need to castrate rapists and burn them,” she wrote in a fierce X post.
I’m sickkk of this. STOP RAPING WOMEN. They need to castrate rapists and burn them.
— Simi (@SympLySimi) February 17, 2026
The strong language immediately divided opinion. While many supporters applauded her for speaking boldly in defence of victims, others argued that if such extreme punishment were to be considered, similar consequences should apply to individuals who make false rape accusations.
However, Simi stood her ground, clarifying that her advocacy is centred on survivors of sexual assault not on those falsely accused. Her clarification further intensified the debate online.
Addressing critics, particularly male followers who challenged her stance, the singer said her anger stems from lived realities shared by women around her.
“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.
Almost every woman I know personally has been sexually assaulted at some point in their lives. You can’t think it’s okay to shut people up from speaking up about assault because some people lie. If you lie, you should face consequences – but that’s not the conversation I’m…
— Simi (@SympLySimi) February 17, 2026
Simi also called on men to take responsibility within their circles, arguing that silence and complicity contribute to an environment where abuse thrives. According to her, meaningful change will require men holding one another accountable rather than dismissing women’s experiences.
The conversation sparked by her remarks continues to trend, highlighting once again the deep tensions surrounding gender-based violence, justice, and accountability in Nigeria.
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