A recent plea for donations from Kiddwaya, a well-known Big Brother Naija reality show star and billionaire heir, has sparked widespread criticism in Nigeria. The call for financial support was made through his NGO, the Kiddwaya Foundation, with the aim of assisting victims of a devastating massacre in Benue State. Over 200 people lost their lives in a Fulani herdsmen attack on the Yelewata community, leaving many more in need of essential aid.
Kiddwaya’s appeal, which was shared on social media, requested donations ranging from N500 to N500,000. However, his plea was met with backlash from the public, who questioned his decision to solicit funds from others given his own wealthy background. Critics pointed out that Kiddwaya frequently showcases his luxurious lifestyle online, which seemed at odds with his request for financial help from others.
The criticism was swift and vocal, with many taking to social media to express their disappointment and skepticism. One user, @_itsoyin, wrote, “Kiddwaya trying to scam Nigerians is what I never expected to see. Nigerians are going through it.” Another user, @ArakunrinSugar, commented, “It’s touching, really. A man with enough cash to light cigars with hundred-dollar bills has suddenly discovered the power of community fundraising. How noble. Only in Nigeria, where the rich perform charity and the poor pay the ticket price.”
Other critics echoed these sentiments, highlighting the perceived hypocrisy of Kiddwaya’s actions. @Ndubuisi_23 noted, “When it’s time to show wealth and flamboyant living, Kiddwaya will be at the forefront, showing the world how wealthy he and his family are. But when it’s time to help the people of Benue, Kiddwaya will need people to contribute N500 and N500k.” @AndyjnrUmaru also weighed in, saying, “Kiddwaya, billionaire pikin, dey ask for general donation for Benue, with all the lavish lifestyle. E still get plenty things wey we never understand. One day, truth go commot.”
In response to the criticism, Kiddwaya deleted the post from his social media page. The controversy surrounding his plea for donations has raised important questions about the role of wealthy individuals in philanthropy and the expectations placed upon them to use their resources for the greater good. As the people of Benue continue to suffer in the aftermath of the massacre, it remains to be seen how Kiddwaya and others like him will respond to the crisis and work towards providing meaningful support to those in need.
