By John Umeh
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has initiated a formal investigation into allegations of child abuse at a daycare facility in Lagos following widespread public concern triggered by resurfaced social media posts connected to Nigerian singer Simisola Kosoko, popularly known as Simi.
The directive was issued by NAPTIPโs Director-General, Binta Adamu Bello, who ordered the agencyโs operatives to immediately begin a comprehensive probe into the claims. The agency said its decision was influenced by growing reactions online and the seriousness of the allegations circulating on social media.
In a statement shared on its official X platform, NAPTIP confirmed that it had commenced a full-scale inquiry into the matter. The agency emphasized its commitment to safeguarding children and urged anyone with relevant information or who may have experienced abuse at the daycare centre to come forward through its official reporting channels.
NAPTIP assured the public that all complaints would be handled with urgency and professionalism, stressing that protecting vulnerable children remains a top priority.
The federal agencyโs intervention follows an earlier move by the Lagos State Government to address the issue. Lola Vivour-Adeniyi, Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency, revealed during a television interview that the case had already been forwarded to the Commissioner of Police for preliminary assessment.
The controversy began after old tweets, allegedly posted by Simi between 2012 and 2013, resurfaced online shortly after she made strong comments condemning sexual violence and calling for stricter punishment for offenders. Critics claimed the old posts suggested troubling conduct in a daycare environment, prompting widespread debate and concern.
In response, the singer denied any wrongdoing, stating that the resurfaced posts had been taken out of context and did not reflect any abusive behaviour.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing, and further action will depend on the outcome of findings by relevant agencies.
