Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, has clarified reports claiming he donated N20 million to actress Sarah Martins’ Golden Heart Foundation, explaining that the contribution was made by some of his friends out of their own volition.
In a statement shared via his Instagram story, Tinubu said he was only informed that a group of his friends had raised funds to support Martins’ charity efforts after she reportedly encountered legal issues related to environmental violations.
He wrote: “I have been informed that some friends of mine, moved by compassion, raised funds to support a young woman who had an encounter with the law over an environmental violation.
“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.
“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.”
Tinubu further stressed that though he values the empathy shown by his friends, he stands firmly against any action that contravenes state regulations.
“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,” he added.
The clarification follows claims made by Sarah Martins on social media that she received a N20 million donation from Seyi Tinubu to support her foundation’s charitable activities. Martins had alleged that during one of her outreach efforts, government officials disrupted her operations, confiscated equipment, and left her with minor burns caused by hot oil.
However, the Lagos State Government has defended the actions of its officials, stating that Martins violated environmental and safety laws by conducting unauthorised street cooking on a road median.
Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, reiterated that while the state encourages charitable initiatives, they must adhere to established regulations to prevent obstruction of traffic and ensure public safety.
