Simi Demands Death Penalty for Rapists in Nigeria Rape Crisis

Nigerian Afrobeats star Simi has ignited a national debate after advocating for the death penalty for convicted rapists, a comment made against the backdrop of a reported surge in sexual assault cases across Nigeria.

Simisola Kosoko, who performs as Simi, made the remarks in a social media post on Tuesday, expressing intense frustration over the crisis. “I’m sick of this. Stop raping women. They need to castrate rapists and burn them,” she wrote on platform X. Her call for what amounts to capital punishment quickly drew scrutiny and responses from the public.

The controversy intensified as numerous commentators argued that if severe punishment is advocated for rapists, the same should apply to individuals who make false rape accusations. Simi subsequently clarified her position, stating her advocacy is specifically for victims of sexual assault, not those accused of making false claims. She emphasized that nearly all women in her life have experienced some form of sexual violence, arguing that the existence of false accusations should not silence the discourse on a pervasive epidemic.

“You need to ask your sisters. Ask your female friends and your girlfriends. Ask your wives,” she urged in a follow-up statement. “Women are terrified to go out. Women in their homes are not safe either.” She directed criticism at men collectively, calling on them to hold each other accountable for creating environments that enable sexual violence. “Stop raping women,” she repeated.

Her statements highlight the deep societal fissures surrounding gender-based violence in Nigeria. According to local media reports like the Media Talk Africa, the country is grappling with a spike in reported rape cases in recent weeks, prompting widespread anger and protests. Simi’s comments reflect a growing, often anguished, demand for decisive legal and social action from prominent figures.

While her proposal for the death penalty is legally contentious and not currently part of Nigeria’s statutes for rape, the episode underscores the public’s desperation over the issue. The debate now extends beyond punishment to encompass the societal responsibilities of men, the credibility of accusations, and the state’s effectiveness in prosecuting sexual crimes. The conversation is likely to persist as activists and lawmakers continue to pressure for stronger protections and justice for survivors.