Nigerian singer Simi has addressed criticism following the resurfacing of old tweets she posted in 2012, which recently went viral on social media.
The controversy erupted shortly after the award-winning artiste made strong remarks condemning sexual assault and calling out societal excuses that often shield perpetrators.
The timing of the resurfaced tweets led to heightened scrutiny, with many social media users revisiting posts she made over a decade ago. The tweets in question referenced a four-year-old boy at her mother’s daycare and described playful interactions that some online commentators found concerning. Screenshots circulated widely, sparking intense debate about the context and intent behind the posts.
Reacting to the backlash, Simi clarified that she was not a public figure at the time the tweets were made. She explained that the posts reflected her everyday experiences helping out at her mother’s daycare centre and were intended to share light-hearted, innocent moments involving children.
According to the singer, the tweets were meant to capture the playful and often humorous behavior of young children, not to suggest anything inappropriate. “The posts were simply a way of sharing cute and funny moments from my daily life back then,” she stated. “There was no ill intention, and they should not be seen as anything perverse.”
Simi acknowledged that while the tweets may now be interpreted differently by some readers, they were never intended to cause harm or discomfort. She emphasized that context is important, particularly when revisiting content from many years ago. The digital landscape, she noted, has evolved significantly since 2012, and conversations around sensitive topics have become more nuanced and vigilant.
The singer also revealed that her team has since deleted some of the old posts to protect her family’s privacy. She stressed that the decision was not an admission of wrongdoing but a step to prevent further misinterpretation and unnecessary attention toward her loved ones.
The incident highlights the broader challenges faced by public figures in the digital age. With social media archives easily accessible, content shared years before fame can resurface and be judged against present-day standards. For celebrities who have grown both personally and professionally, such moments often spark complex discussions about growth, accountability, and the permanence of online footprints.
Simi’s recent advocacy against sexual assault has drawn praise from many supporters who view her as a strong voice against abuse and a champion for women’s rights. However, the resurfaced tweets have also underscored how quickly public narratives can shift when past content emerges.
Despite the controversy, many fans have expressed support for the singer, acknowledging her clarification and emphasizing the importance of context. As debates continue online, the situation serves as a reminder of how social media history can resurface unexpectedly, challenging public figures to address past expressions in a rapidly evolving cultural climate.
Ultimately, Simi’s response reflects an effort to clarify intent, protect her family, and navigate the complexities of digital accountability in today’s interconnected world.
