Seyi Tinubu Breaks Silence on VeryDarkMan's Allegations
Seyi Tinubu, son of Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, has issued a formal statement addressing recent allegations made by online critic Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan. The controversy emerged during VeryDarkMan's public feud with social media influencer King Mitchy, where claims were made about Seyi's involvement and financial support.
The Core Allegations and Seyi's Response
In his statement released via Instagram on February 28, 2026, Seyi Tinubu categorically denied all allegations and insinuations made against him. He specifically addressed claims that he had been funding King Mitchy since 2023 and that their relationship extended beyond professional boundaries.
"Let me be clear: the allegations and insinuations made about me are false," Seyi stated emphatically. "I met Mitchy once, in a public setting, alongside others. On that occasion, I provided financial support toward her NGO activities, just as I have supported many young Nigerians and organisations working to empower our people."
Details of the Single Encounter
Seyi Tinubu provided specific details about his interaction with King Mitchy, emphasizing the professional and transparent nature of their meeting:
- The meeting occurred in a public setting with other individuals present
- Financial support was provided specifically for NGO activities
- A follow-up meeting was scheduled but never occurred due to Seyi's illness
- No private encounters, secret arrangements, or impropriety of any kind took place
The president's son expressed frustration at being dragged into a feud he did not initiate, stating: "What is deeply concerning is that a feud I did not start, and in which I have played no part, has been used as a vehicle to insert my name into a narrative without basis in truth."
Standing Against Online Bullying
Seyi Tinubu took a firm stance against online harassment and bullying in his statement. He referenced his personal experiences with bullying and expressed concern about the mental health impacts of online attacks.
"I will not be bullied, and I will not dignify fiction with panic," he declared. "What we are witnessing online, particularly the escalation of attacks that many suggest are having serious mental health impacts, is unacceptable. No disagreement should descend into harassment that risks someone's wellbeing or safety."
Defending Philanthropic Work
The statement also served as a defense of Seyi Tinubu's philanthropic activities over the past decade. He emphasized that his support for various causes, including education, enterprise, health, and youth empowerment, has been transparent and documented.
"Philanthropy and outreach must never be politicised or weaponised," Seyi asserted. "For over a decade, through my foundation and personal giving, I have supported initiatives in education, enterprise, health, youth empowerment and many others. That work is transparent, documented, and rooted in service."
Background of the Controversy
The allegations emerged during a heated online exchange between VeryDarkMan and King Mitchy. VeryDarkMan had claimed that Mitchy was being used as a political pawn to improve the image of President Bola Tinubu's administration. He further alleged that her interventions in the education sector were politically motivated and that Seyi Tinubu had been funding her activities since 2023.
In subsequent videos, VeryDarkMan escalated his claims, alleging that both Seyi Tinubu and King Mitchy were threatening his life. These allegations prompted Seyi's detailed public response and clarification of his limited interaction with the influencer.
Social Media Reactions
The statement generated mixed reactions across social media platforms. Some users supported Seyi Tinubu's position, while others remained skeptical or critical of his response. Comments ranged from praise for his transparency to criticism of the broader political context in Nigeria.
One user commented on the timing of Seyi's unfollowing of King Mitchy on Instagram, which occurred amid the ongoing feud. This action was interpreted by some observers as distancing himself from the controversy, though Seyi's statement did not address this specific action.
Broader Implications
Seyi Tinubu concluded his statement with a call for responsible discourse, stating: "To those seeking to manufacture controversy: Nigeria needs builders, not bullies. We need responsible discourse, not sensationalism driven by speculation."
The incident highlights the increasing intersection of politics, philanthropy, and social media influence in Nigeria's digital landscape. It also raises questions about how public figures navigate allegations in an era of rapid information dissemination and online controversies.
