Popular Nigerian singer Simi has responded to public criticism over some of her old social media posts about children, saying her words were taken out of context and wrongly interpreted.
The controversy began after some social media users dug up tweets she posted about 14 years ago and shared them online. The posts, written in 2012 when the singer was 23 years old, sparked debate and criticism from some members of the public.
In a statement shared online, Simi said she was not even aware of the renewed attention until someone brought the tweets to her notice.
“I haven’t been on Twitter today, but someone brought a few of my old tweets to my attention and I can’t not address it,” she wrote.
The singer made it clear that she would not allow anyone to twist her story to fit what she described as false narratives.
Simi explained that at the time she made the posts, she was living with her mother and helping out at her daycare centre while trying to build her music career.
According to her, she often shared details of her daily life on social media, as was common among young people at the time.
“In 2012, I lived and helped out at my mum’s daycare while I was hustling my music. I tweeted everything that happened in my life, as we all did at the time,” she said.
She noted that children can be playful and sometimes mischievous, and she would tweet about funny or cute things they did.
“If a child did something I found funny, I tweeted about it. Kids are cute and lovable. I want to hug, kiss and cuddle them. I tweet about it. Nothing I tweeted was from perversion,” she stated.
Simi also pointed out that she was not famous at the time and did not expect her posts to be subjected to intense scrutiny many years later.
She suggested that if she had already been in the spotlight, she might have been more careful, knowing that public figures are often judged differently.
“I was not famous, so maybe if I was, I would have understood that anything is open to whatever interpretation including being used falsely by a faceless mob,” she added.
The singer stressed that she has never lived a depraved life and has nothing to hide.
As the debate continued online, Simi disclosed that her team had started deleting some of the old tweets because of how sensitive the situation had become for her family.
“To be honest, I did not want to,” she said, explaining that the decision was taken out of concern for her loved ones.
Simi has over the years built a public image not only as a successful musician but also as someone who speaks out on social issues. She has often used her platform to condemn rape and sexual assault.
“I have always spoken against rape and sexual assault even before you knew I existed. It’s not a costume I’m wearing, it’s who I am,” she said.
The singer added that she has never claimed to be perfect or to know everything, but she stands firmly by her belief that sexual violence is wrong.
“I said stop raping women. I stand by it,” she declared.
Simi rose to fame in the mid-2010s with hit songs that earned her a strong fan base in Nigeria and beyond. Over the years, she has become one of the most respected female voices in the Nigerian music industry, known for her unique sound and thoughtful lyrics.
Like many celebrities, she has also faced public criticism at different times. Social media has made it easier for old posts to resurface, often leading to fresh debates.
Some fans have come out in support of the singer, saying her tweets were harmless and reflective of youthful expression. Others argue that public figures must always be careful with their words, even from many years ago.
The incident once again highlights the power and risks of social media. Posts made years ago can resurface and be judged under today’s standards.
Despite the backlash, Simi has maintained that her intentions were innocent and that she will not allow her name to be dragged into what she considers false accusations.
As discussions continue online, many observers believe the situation serves as a reminder of how public opinion can quickly shift in the digital age.
