KiddWaya, a Nigerian reality star, whose real name is Terseer Waya, has responded to the backlash he received after appealing for monetary support for victims of the Yelewata tragedy in Benue State.
As earlier reported by eelive.ng, the reality star had, via the social media platform X, called upon Nigerians to contribute to a fundraiser organised by his Kiddwaya Foundation to provide aid for those who lost their families and properties during the recent upheaval in Benue state.
But the appeal was met with heavy criticism, with many social media users accusing the Nigerian reality star, who is renowned for flaunting wealth and luxury across his various social media accounts, of hypocrisy.
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Reacting in a statement posted on his social media pages on Thursday, Kiddwaya said his intention was genuine and not an attempt to gain attention.
“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,” he wrote.
“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,” he added.
The reality star said the killings in Benue remain the real tragedy.
“Right now, people in Benue are being attacked. Families are being torn apart. Lives are being lost,” he said.
“The Kiddwaya Foundation was built for moments like this, to step in where help is needed most. I will not stop caring. I will not stop showing up when lives are on the line. Even if it’s not on social media. Even if it’s misunderstood,” he added.
Kiddwaya, who is the son of billionaire businessman Terry Waya, hails from Benue State.
He rose to fame during the BBNaija Lockdown edition in 2020 and has since remained a public figure known for his opulent lifestyle.
Over 200 people were reportedly killed in attacks on the Yelewata and Daudu communities in Guma Local Government Area of Benue between June 13 and 14.
Survivors of the attacks have been left homeless and in urgent need of humanitarian aid.
