President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s son, Seyi Tinubu, has publicly dismissed claims that he donated ₦20 million to Nollywood actress Sarah Martins following her viral clash with Lagos State environmental officials.
Taking to his Instagram Story on Friday, Seyi clarified that he did not personally contribute any money to Martins’ Golden Heart Foundation, contrary to the reports circulating across social media.
He explained that while some of his friends may have independently raised funds to assist a woman penalised for breaching Lagos State environmental regulations, their gesture should not be mistaken for an endorsement or direct donation from him.
“Some of my friends raised funds to help a lady affected by the enforcement of Lagos environmental laws. However, I personally made no contribution to that cause,” Seyi stated.
He went on to commend the donors for their compassion but stressed that empathy must never override the rule of law.
“Their intention, I believe, was to help her secure a proper space to run her business, not to undermine the law. Lagos thrives on order, and Nigeria’s strength depends on our collective respect for law and order. Empathy and patriotism must always go together,” he added.
Seyi’s clarification follows viral claims made by Sarah Martins, who had earlier announced that she received ₦20 million from the presidential son as a show of support after her unpleasant encounter with Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) officials.
Martins alleged that she was harassed and her items confiscated while distributing free food to the less privileged on a street median in Lekki, an action the Lagos State Ministry of Environment later confirmed violated sanitation laws.
The actress’s emotional video sparked widespread sympathy and online outrage, prompting several Nigerians, including influential figures to reportedly offer assistance.
Seyi Tinubu’s statement now sets the record straight, emphasizing the importance of following due process even in acts of charity.
