Simi: NAPTIP to probe daycare abuse allegations following controversy

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has announced plans to investigate alleged cases of child abuse and misconduct in daycare centres across Nigeria, following renewed public concerns triggered by resurfaced social media posts linked to Nigerian singer Simisola Bolatito Kosoko.

The agency disclosed this in a public notice released on Tuesday via its official communication channels, stating that it had received credible reports relating to alleged abuse involving children in daycare environments. NAPTIP said it is committed to thoroughly examining the claims as part of its mandate to protect vulnerable individuals, particularly minors, from exploitation and abuse.

According to the agency, the investigation will focus on gathering verifiable evidence and testimonies connected to the allegations, while also encouraging individuals with direct knowledge of incidents to come forward confidentially.

Agency calls for evidence as viral posts trigger nationwide concern

NAPTIP urged members of the public who have factual information, evidence, or firsthand accounts relating to abuse in daycare settings to contact the agency through its official email or direct messaging platforms. The agency assured potential whistleblowers that all communications would be treated with strict confidentiality to protect victims and witnesses.

The development follows widespread reactions on social media after old posts made by Kosoko, popularly known as Simi, resurfaced online. The posts, which date back to a period when the singer assisted at her mother’s daycare facility, described her interactions with children under her care.

Although the posts were originally shared years before she rose to national fame, they recently attracted renewed scrutiny and criticism after circulating widely across social media platforms.

The controversy has sparked broader conversations about child safety standards in daycare facilities and the need for stronger oversight mechanisms to protect children from potential harm.

In response to the backlash, the 37-year-old singer addressed the situation publicly, explaining that the posts were made during her early adulthood and reflected what she described as innocent moments from her life at the time. She maintained that her actions were never inappropriate or harmful, stressing that there was no malicious intent behind her words.

Also read: Simi Responds to Backlash Over Resurfaced X Tweets

Kosoko also revealed that members of her team had begun deleting some of the resurfaced posts due to their sensitive nature and the potential impact on her family. She emphasized that the posts were not rooted in perversion and expressed concern about how the controversy was being interpreted.

NAPTIP reiterated its commitment to protecting children and investigating all credible claims of abuse or exploitation. The agency stated that its intervention reflects its broader responsibility to prevent human trafficking, sexual exploitation, and other forms of abuse affecting vulnerable populations.

The investigation comes amid growing calls from child protection advocates for stricter regulation of daycare centres and improved safeguards to ensure the safety and well-being of children across the country.

Officials say the outcome of the probe could help clarify the issues raised and reinforce accountability measures within childcare institutions, while also reassuring the public of the government’s commitment to child protection.