Kiddwaya addresses criticism regarding his appeal for donations for Benue

Abdullateef Fowewe

Kiddwaya, a former contestant on Big Brother Naija, has spoken out about the criticism he faced after asking for donations to aid victims of violence in Benue State via his foundation.

In his statement, Kiddwaya emphasised that his request was made with genuine intentions, stemming from his strong connections to Benue, where he is originally from.

He highlighted that the real tragedy lies in the ongoing turmoil in the state, resulting in significant displacement and loss of life.

The reality TV personality and son of billionaire entrepreneur Terry Waya acknowledged that his post about donations may have been misinterpreted, causing unintentional distress.

In light of the public reaction, he chose to remove the post as a sign of respect for his critics.

Nevertheless, Kiddwaya firmly reiterated his commitment to supporting his community, vowing to continue using his voice, influence, and resources to provide help where it’s needed, regardless of public opinion.

He wrote, “I’ve seen the comments. I hear the backlash. I didn’t post about Benue for clout, I posted because I genuinely care. I am a Benue indigene and a proud Benue man. What’s happening there breaks my heart, and I couldn’t just look away. I took the donation post down because I saw the pain and misunderstanding it caused, not because I’m ashamed of helping, but because I respect your voices, even the angry ones.

“But let’s not forget what this is really about. Right now, people in Benue are being attacked. Families are being torn apart. Lives are being lost.
Innocent children, mothers, and fathers, killed or displaced from their homes.

“That’s the real tragedy here. That’s what hurts and staying silent in the face of this kind of pain didn’t feel right.

“The Kiddwaya Foundation was built for moments like this, to step in where help is needed most. And like all foundations, community support is what gives it life.
I can’t fix this crisis alone. But I can, and will, do my part.

“Moving forward, I will continue on this journey of supporting my people. Nonetheless, with more of us standing together, we can do even more, for Benue, and for every Nigerian going through pain like this. Let me say this clearly: I will not stop caring. I will not stop showing up when lives are on the line.

“And I will continue to use what I have, my voice, my platform, and my resources, to help, no matter what anyone says.
This isn’t about me. It never was.
It’s about the Benue people, and i hope that when the noise fades, we’ll all remember what truly matters”.