Simi weighs in on how to deal with rapists

Nigerian Afrobeats singer Simisola Kosoko, popularly known as Simi, has ignited a heated debate after advocating for capital punishment for convicted rapists. The singer made her stance known during a recent interview, where she expressed strong disapproval of lenient sentencing for sexual offenders. Her comments have since drawn mixed reactions from the public, with some supporting her position while others argue against the death penalty as a solution.

Simi emphasized the need for stricter laws to deter sexual violence, particularly against women and children. She argued that rapists often escape severe consequences, leaving victims traumatized without justice. “If the punishment were more severe, maybe these crimes would reduce,” she stated. Her remarks resonated with many Nigerians who have long criticized the country’s judicial system for its slow prosecution of rape cases and perceived leniency toward offenders.

However, critics of Simi’s stance argue that capital punishment is irreversible and could lead to wrongful executions, given Nigeria’s flawed legal processes. Human rights advocates have also pointed out that addressing systemic issues—such as poor law enforcement, victim shaming, and inadequate support systems—would be more effective in combating sexual violence than extreme punitive measures.

The discussion has since spilled over to social media, with hashtags like JusticeForRapeVictims and NoToDeathPenalty trending. While some fans praised Simi for using her platform to speak out, others urged her to consider alternative solutions, such as rehabilitation programs and stronger victim protection laws.

As the debate continues, Simi’s comments have brought renewed attention to Nigeria’s ongoing struggle with sexual violence and the urgent need for comprehensive legal and social reforms. Whether her call for capital punishment gains traction remains to be seen, but the conversation has undoubtedly highlighted deep divisions in public opinion on how best to address the issue.