Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, has denied reports that he donated ₦20 million to Nollywood actress Sarah Martins’ Golden Heart Foundation.
In a statement shared via his Instagram Story on Friday, Seyi clarified that he does not endorse or support any activity that violates the laws of Lagos State.
He explained that while some of his friends, “moved by compassion,” had raised funds to support a young woman who recently faced an environmental-related sanction, he was not personally involved in the donation.
“Their intention, I believe, was to help her secure a proper space to run her business, not to undermine the law. I appreciate their kindness and concern,” he stated.
However, he stressed that while their intentions were noble, he does not condone any act that breaches the law.
“That said, I must emphasise that while their hearts were in the right place, I do not support any act that violates the laws of Lagos State,” he wrote.
“Lagos thrives on order, and Nigeria’s strength depends on our collective respect for both our law and order. Empathy and patriotism must always go together.”
Seyi added that while citizens are free to support charitable causes, such efforts must be done responsibly and in accordance with state regulations.
His clarification followed widespread social media reactions after Sarah Martins announced that she had received ₦20 million from Seyi Tinubu to support her foundation.
Martins, who runs the Golden Heart Foundation, had earlier alleged harassment by officials of the Lagos Environmental Sanitation Corps during a street charity event in Lekki, where she was reportedly cooking food for the less privileged.
She claimed that the officials disrupted her outreach, seized her equipment, and left her with minor burns from hot oil during the confrontation.
Following the incident, several Nigerians, including some public figures, reportedly raised funds to help her secure a proper space for her charity work.
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In an Instagram post on Friday, Martins announced the alleged donation, saying, “From the office of the President, our philanthropic youth leader, Mr. Seyi Tinubu, just supported my NGO with ₦20,000,000. He didn’t only give me ₦20,000,000 but also promised to take my free food charity outreach to the next level.”
Her post quickly went viral, sparking public debate over the alleged donation and its source.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Government has defended the actions of its officials, stating that Martins violated environmental and safety regulations by cooking on a public road median.
Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said while the government encourages charitable initiatives, they must be carried out in designated areas and in compliance with the law to ensure public safety.