Outrage as Kiddwaya Solicits Donations for Benue Victims Despite Billionaire Status, Nigerians React Sharply

 

Nigerian reality television star, Kiddwaya, has found himself at the center of a heated controversy after calling for public donations to support victims of a violent attack in Benue State. Despite his claim of genuine concern and his foundation's readiness to intervene, many Nigerians are questioning the integrity of the fundraising appeal, pointing to his family’s wealth and past public behavior.

The backdrop to this social media storm is the harrowing event that unfolded in Yelewata, a community in Benue State, where suspected armed herdsmen carried out a brutal assault, leaving over 200 people dead and several others displaced. The magnitude of the tragedy has triggered calls for urgent humanitarian intervention, with several organizations and individuals stepping in to assist.

Among those offering help is Kiddwaya, who hails from Benue and is best known for his stint on the reality TV show Big Brother Naija. Through his organization, the Kiddwaya Foundation, he announced via social media that efforts were already underway to mobilize resources aimed at providing food, shelter, and other essentials to affected families. However, what he likely intended as a rallying cry for collective support quickly spiraled into criticism.

“We are doing our part, but we need your help,” read part of the public statement from the foundation. It continued by encouraging contributions from both individuals and institutions, stating that any amount from ₦500 to ₦500,000 could make a difference. The message also urged people to use their platforms and voices to spread awareness, reinforcing the idea that solidarity is needed now more than ever.

Despite the apparent good intentions, the response from the Nigerian public has been largely negative. Many online users accused Kiddwaya of exploiting a tragic situation for personal or brand gain. The backlash primarily centers around his affluent background. As the son of billionaire businessman Terry Waya, Kiddwaya is often portrayed as a figure of opulence and privilege, and many believe he should be funding such relief efforts personally instead of soliciting public contributions.

Social media platforms quickly filled with reactions expressing skepticism and frustration. One user, @Phay_roh13, bluntly stated, “Oga na billionaire u be u still de find our 500/1k,” while another, @zonnaltd, commented, “This is how they make their money, drop billing formats, make a lot of money from the donations then give peanuts to the people in need with camera, then start trolling Nigerians while in private jet.”

Adding to the chorus of criticism, @bigiykesammy wrote, “Your father said he is worth 2.2 billion dollars, u still wan cash out with public money. Collect 2 million dollars from your papa. This move na thief move.” Such reactions reflect a growing distrust among citizens towards perceived elitism and lack of genuine compassion in times of national distress.

Others linked Kiddwaya’s move to broader political disillusionment, especially with the support given to political leaders like President Tinubu and Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia. One comment by @Arinze_Emma9 read, “Many of them still stood up for Tinubu, Alia. See how they decorated everywhere because of a man that doesn’t care about a single life. These are the leaders they are standing up for. Smh.”

The public sentiment seems to stem not only from economic disparity but also from a broader feeling that privileged figures frequently exploit the struggles of ordinary Nigerians. This sentiment was echoed by another user, @comerade01, who remarked, “This one done open business on top Benue people head. Everything is a joke in this country.”

So far, neither Kiddwaya nor his foundation has responded directly to the backlash. While the foundation insists its mission is purely humanitarian, the absence of transparency regarding fund allocation and accountability has only fueled the controversy.

The situation reflects a deeper conversation about responsibility, privilege, and the trust deficit in Nigeria's charitable space. Many are now demanding not just aid but clarity about how such foundations operate, how funds are managed, and who truly benefits from these interventions.

For now, the tragedy in Benue continues to call for urgent help. But as the fire of outrage over Kiddwaya's appeal burns on, it becomes clear that Nigerians are no longer willing to blindly follow celebrity-led campaigns without demanding answers and accountability.