Police to Question Influencers Over Dangerous Bleach Drinking Trend
The Abuja Police Command has announced plans to summon two prominent social media influencers, Michelle Mukoro (known as King Mitchy) and Martins Otse (popularly called Very Dark Man or VDM), for questioning regarding a shocking viral video that has sparked widespread alarm. The footage, which circulated extensively on TikTok and other platforms, appeared to show both individuals consuming a bleaching substance during online stunts, leading to dangerous imitation trends among content creators.
From Livestream to Legal Scrutiny
The controversy began on February 28, 2026, when Mukoro livestreamed on TikTok what appeared to be her drinking a bleach-like substance. The clip quickly went viral, generating panic and disbelief across social media platforms. Shortly afterward, Otse performed a similar stunt, further amplifying the dangerous spectacle.
The situation escalated dramatically when Mukoro posted on Instagram claiming she had died, a statement that was later confirmed to be false. However, the damage had already been done, with the video inspiring a dangerous trend where other content creators began mimicking suicide attempts using Hypo bleach sachets in their skits and videos.
Legal Consequences and Public Safety Concerns
Under Nigerian law, the actions depicted in the video carry serious legal implications. Section 327 of the Criminal Code and Section 231 of the Penal Code stipulate that attempted suicide can result in up to one year imprisonment. Furthermore, publishing false news with intent to cause fear or disturb public peace is punishable by up to three years under Section 59 of the Criminal Code. Aiding someone in attempting suicide can even lead to a life sentence.
The FCT Police Commissioner, Mr. Miller Dantawaye, confirmed the investigation, stating, "We are looking into it. I have spoken with my PRO on the matter. We will invite the duo soon." The police have yet to formally summon Mukoro and Otse, but with growing public outcry and potential legal ramifications, their questioning appears imminent.
Corporate Response and Feud Origins
Multipro Enterprise Limited, manufacturers of Hypo Bleach, issued a stern warning through their Marketing Manager, Mr. Adebayo Adeyemo. He emphasized, "Hypo Bleach is strictly for cleaning purposes. It is not something to consume for trends. The images going around are fabricated. Framing it otherwise is dangerous." He directly addressed content creators, noting, "Your reach is real. So is your responsibility. A trend that ends in ill health or harm is not worth starting."
Reports suggest the controversy may have originated from a financial dispute between the two influencers. Mukoro reportedly questioned how funds donated to Otse's NGO were being utilized, claiming she had completed projects using her own resources. This exchange quickly escalated into a public feud involving insults and even dragged public figures like the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, and Seyi Tinubu into the drama.
Dangerous Trend and Public Reaction
The viral video has inspired a hazardous imitation trend, with some creators incorporating Hypo bleach sachets into their content. Under one such video, a netizen commented, "Hypo na soft drink, Sniper na energy drink. This country sha," reflecting a misleading narrative that trivializes serious health risks.
As the video continues to trend, Nigerians are urging caution, emphasizing that while some trends are entertaining, others can be fatal. The situation remains tense, with authorities monitoring the spread of dangerous content and preparing to take formal action against those responsible for initiating this perilous challenge.
