NAPTIP Faces Heat Over Silence on Singer Simi’s Old Tweets

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has come under criticism after asking members of the public to submit evidence regarding alleged child sexual abuse and misconduct in daycare centres across Nigeria. In a public notice, the agency said it is ready to investigate credible reports and urged anyone with direct knowledge, proof, or personal experience related to viral social media posts to contact it confidentially.

The notice followed renewed online attention on old tweets linked to singer Simisola Bolatito Kosoko. NAPTIP said recent discussions had raised concerns that require proper investigation. However, many Nigerians reacted angrily, accusing the agency of placing the burden of investigation on the public instead of acting on information already circulating online.

Some critics compared the situation to the agency’s past handling of allegations involving musician Speed Darlington, popularly known as Akpi. They argued that NAPTIP appeared more direct in that case and questioned why the same approach was not being applied now.

The controversy began after decade-old posts by Simi resurfaced on X. In the tweets, she referenced interactions with children at her mother’s daycare, which some users considered inappropriate. The singer has denied any misconduct, saying the posts were written years ago and have been misinterpreted. Online reactions remain divided, with some calling for formal investigations and others warning against rushing to conclusions.