Kiddwaya faces online heat after urging Nigerians to donate to his foundation for Benue victims.
Critics question why a billionaire’s son would seek public funds instead of funding relief himself.
Reality TV star Kiddwaya has come under heavy criticism from Nigerians online after he appealed for public donations to his charity, the Kiddwaya Foundation, to assist victims of the recent massacre in Benue State.
The backlash follows a deadly attack in Yelewata, a community in Benue, where armed herdsmen reportedly killed over 200 residents in a single night. In response to the tragedy, Kiddwaya who hails from the state issued a public statement via his social media platforms calling for financial support. According to him, the donations would be used to provide food, shelter, and other essential relief materials to affected families.
Part of the foundation’s statement read:
“At the Kiddwaya Foundation, we are mobilizing resources to provide food, shelter, and essential support to those affected. But we can’t do it alone we need your help.” The foundation encouraged contributions of any amount, stating that “whether it’s ₦500 or ₦500,000, every naira counts.” They also urged people to offer support in any form whether financial, vocal, or through volunteering. “Let’s remind the world that Nigerians don’t abandon their own in times of need,” the message concluded.
Despite the foundation’s seemingly noble intentions, many Nigerians did not receive the appeal well. Social media users quickly questioned why Kiddwaya, the son of billionaire businessman Terry Waya, would seek public funds instead of financing the relief efforts personally.
One user, @Phay_roh13, mocked, “Oga na billionaire you be, you still dey find our 500/1k?”
Another commenter, @zonnaltd, added, “This is how they make money. They gather donations, give peanuts to victims with cameras rolling, then troll Nigerians from private jets.”
@bigiykesammy wrote, “Your father said he’s worth $2.2 billion, and you still want to cash out from public donations? Ask him for $2 million and stop this thief move.”
Some also tied the criticism to political frustrations, with @Arinze_Emma9 writing, “Many of them supported Tinubu and Alia. Now look the same leaders don’t care about lives lost. See how they decorated everywhere for Tinubu’s visit while people are mourning.”
Another critic, @comerade01, summed it up bluntly: “This one don open business on top Benue people’s head. Everything is a joke in this country.”
Kiddwaya has yet to respond to the backlash, but the incident has reignited debates on accountability, privilege, and sincerity in celebrity philanthropy during national crises.
