The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency has emphasised the need for careful and professional investigations in cases of alleged domestic and sexual violence, warning that misinformation could undermine justice, even as it maintained that genuine victims must never be silenced.
In a statement released on Thursday, the agency noted that while emotions often run high in such sensitive cases, “thorough and professional investigation remains the foundation of justice.” According to the agency, due process protects survivors, safeguards the rights of the accused, and ensures that conclusions are based on verified facts rather than speculation.
The statement followed developments surrounding a viral allegation made by a TikTok user, Mirabel (@mirab351), who had earlier claimed she was raped by a stranger in her apartment. The allegation triggered widespread outrage on social media and the hashtag #StopRapingWomen on X.
The Lagos agency explained that it initially appealed to the public to help locate the alleged survivor but later confirmed that the incident reportedly occurred in Ogun State, placing the matter outside its jurisdiction. All relevant information was subsequently forwarded to appropriate authorities in Ogun State to ensure continuity of investigation.
Providing an update, the Ogun State Police Command confirmed that Mirabel voluntarily reported at the Ibafo Police Division on Wednesday, February 18. Police spokesperson Oluseyi Babaseyi stated that after an initial assessment, she was transferred to the Ogijo Division, where officers observed she was not in a stable condition to provide full details. She was immediately taken for medical evaluation, and police stressed that she was not arrested at any point.
Meanwhile, social media commentator Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, claimed that Mirabel later admitted the rape allegation was false and that she required rehabilitation. His claims sparked mixed reactions online, with concerns raised about the impact of false allegations on genuine survivors.
Reiterating its position, the Lagos agency warned that false claims and misinformation could erode public trust, while stressing that justice must always be anchored on truth, evidence, and due process.
