ABUJA — Big Brother Naija star and billionaire heir Kiddwaya is under intense public scrutiny after launching a donation drive to support victims of the recent massacre in Benue State, which claimed over 200 lives.
Through his Kiddwaya Foundation, the reality TV star had on Wednesday appealed to Nigerians via social media platform X to donate between ₦500 and ₦500,000 to aid the provision of food, shelter, and essential relief materials to those affected by the attack in Yelewata community.
However, the gesture quickly triggered a wave of backlash, as critics questioned why someone of Kiddwaya’s immense wealth and public flamboyance would call on ordinary Nigerians, already grappling with economic hardship, to fund relief efforts.
Several users accused him of insensitivity and hypocrisy, citing his history of flaunting luxury items, vacations, and designer possessions online.
@_itsoyin wrote: “Kiddwaya trying to scam Nigerians is what I never expected to see. Nigerians are going through it.”
@Ndubuisi_23 said: “When it’s time to show wealth and flamboyant living, Kiddwaya will be at the forefront… But when it’s time to help the people of Benue, he needs Nigerians to contribute.”
@ArakunrinSugar added: “Only in Nigeria, where the rich perform charity and the poor pay the ticket price.”
Amid mounting criticism, Kiddwaya deleted the viral donation post from his X page without issuing a follow-up statement.
The development comes in the aftermath of a brutal attack by suspected Fulani herdsmen, which left scores of residents dead and displaced many in one of the bloodiest incidents in the region this year.
While Kiddwaya’s intention may have been to mobilize collective action, public sentiment suggests a growing distrust in celebrity-led charity appeals, especially when not backed by visible personal contributions or accountability.
The Kiddwaya Foundation is yet to release details on how much has been raised or how the funds will be disbursed.
