Nigerians woke up on Monday to a disturbing video posted by a young TikToker, Abigail Nsuka, popularly known as Mirabel, alleging she was raped in her apartment in the early hours of Sunday, February 15.
Within hours, the emotional video had spread rapidly across social media platforms, attracting millions of views and prompting widespread outrage. Among those who publicly demanded justice was singer Simi, as thousands of users amplified the call for accountability.
However, what began as a wave of sympathy would later spiral into controversy.
Mirabel is currently in the custody of the Ogun State Police Command as investigations continue.
In the tearful video, Mirabel claimed she was attacked by an unknown man who allegedly forced his way into her apartment around 9am.
According to her account, she had struggled with insomnia and had consumed alcohol in a bid to sleep.
She said she eventually slept around 6am but was awakened three hours later by a knock on her door.
Believing it was a neighbour, she said she opened the door and was immediately overpowered.
She alleged she was restrained and assaulted, further claiming the attacker inflicted injuries on her before fleeing. The graphic details shared in the video deeply unsettled viewers and fueled calls for swift justice.
Advocacy groups quickly indicated interest in the matter. The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency and the Ogun State Government reportedly signaled readiness to ensure the case was thoroughly investigated.
As the video gained traction, Mirabel shared her bank details online, prompting financial support from sympathisers.
Social media influencer Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, disclosed that he transferred ₦100,000 to her, stating he had initially intended to send ₦500,000 but encountered banking limitations.
Other supporters also reportedly sent varying amounts. One of her associates confirmed multiple transfers into her account, while another influencer alleged that the total donations ranged between ₦1 million and ₦5 million.
Growing Doubts and Online Scrutiny
The narrative took a dramatic turn days later when some social media users began questioning inconsistencies in her account.
Critics analysed her statements and alleged similarities between her writing style and the messages she claimed were sent by the supposed attacker.
A neighbour reportedly dismissed parts of her story, while a YouTuber alleged the incident may have been fabricated to solicit financial assistance.
The viral video, which had garnered over seven million views, quickly became the subject of intense debate online, splitting public opinion between supporters and skeptics.
Amid the mounting controversy, the Ogun State Police Command took Mirabel into custody as part of an ongoing investigation into the claims and the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Authorities have yet to release an official conclusion, but the case has reignited conversations about the dangers of misinformation, the sensitivity of sexual assault allegations, and the impact such claims can have on real victims.
As the investigation unfolds, Nigerians continue to watch closely, reflecting on the power—and consequences—of viral narratives in the digital age.
