The controversy surrounding a viral rape allegation in Ogun State has taken a dramatic turn, as the Ogun State Police Command confirmed it is preparing to arrest and prosecute a TikTok content creator identified as Mirabel over what investigators describe as a potentially fabricated rape claim.
The case, which began as a disturbing allegation of sexual assault, quickly spiraled into one of the most talked-about social media controversies in Nigeria, raising serious questions about misinformation, justice, and the implications of false accusations.
Who Is Mirabel?
Mirabel is a Nigerian TikTok user who gained sudden nationwide attention after posting an emotional video alleging that she had been raped in her apartment in the Ogijo area of Ogun State. Prior to the incident, she was not widely known as a mainstream influencer but had an active presence on TikTok, where she shared lifestyle and personal content.
Her video, which showed her visibly distressed and narrating her ordeal, went viral within hours. The gravity of her allegation sparked widespread sympathy, outrage, and calls for swift justice. Many Nigerians demanded immediate police action, while social media users amplified her story across platforms.
The Allegation That Sparked National Attention
In her initial post, Mirabel claimed that unknown men had broken into her residence and sexually assaulted her. She alleged she had been attacked in her own home, and her account triggered intense public anger. Advocacy groups and individuals online began calling for authorities to ensure that those responsible were identified and prosecuted.
As the video circulated, pressure mounted on law enforcement agencies to respond decisively. The Ogun State Police Command confirmed that it had commenced an investigation into the allegation and that officers were working to verify the details of the incident.
At this stage, the case appeared to be a straightforward criminal investigation into a serious allegation. However, events soon took an unexpected turn.
The VeryDarkMan (VDM) Audio Revelation
The controversy deepened when social media activist and influencer VeryDarkMan, popularly known as VDM, released an audio recording allegedly involving Mirabel. In the recording, which quickly went viral, a female voice believed to be hers was heard admitting that aspects of the rape claim were untrue.
According to the audio, she allegedly apologized and suggested she had not been in a stable state of mind when she made the original allegation. The recording triggered immediate backlash online. Public opinion shifted rapidly, with many Nigerians expressing anger over what they perceived as a deliberate attempt to mislead the public on such a sensitive issue.
VDM’s involvement intensified the media storm. His release of the recording placed the matter squarely in the national spotlight and significantly altered the trajectory of the case. What began as a criminal investigation into alleged sexual assault was now evolving into a potential prosecution for false reporting.
Police Investigation and Planned Prosecution
Following the circulation of the audio, the Ogun State Police Command stated that it was expanding its investigation to determine the authenticity of the claims and counterclaims. Police sources indicated that senior officers visited the hospital where Mirabel was reportedly receiving medical care.
Authorities clarified that she had not been immediately arrested but emphasized that if evidence confirmed that the rape allegation was deliberately fabricated, she would face prosecution under Nigerian law for providing false information and potentially misleading law enforcement.
Subsequent updates from the command confirmed that preparations were underway to formally arrest and charge her once investigative procedures were completed and medical clearance was obtained. The police described the situation as a serious matter, noting that false allegations of rape could undermine genuine victims and strain law enforcement resources.
Public Reaction and National Debate
The case has generated intense public debate. Some Nigerians argue that if the allegation was indeed false, it sets a dangerous precedent and could discourage real victims from coming forward. Others have cautioned against rushing to judgment until the investigation is fully concluded.
Reality TV personality Natacha Akide, popularly known as Tacha, publicly weighed in on the issue, stating that if the claim was fabricated, the same seriousness applied to punishing false accusations as prosecuting actual sexual assault cases.
The controversy has sparked broader conversations about responsible social media use, the power of viral narratives, and the legal consequences of making unverified or false criminal accusations.
