Her Charity Received N20 Million From My Friends

Seyi Tinubu

Seyi Tinubu, son of Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, has publicly refuted allegations that he contributed ₦20 million to actress Sarah Martins’ Golden Heart Foundation, clarifying that he neither endorses nor funds activities that violate Lagos State regulations.

In a statement posted on his Instagram Story on Friday, Seyi acknowledged that compassionate friends had pooled resources to assist a woman recently involved in a legal dispute over environmental infractions.



“I understand their motivation was to help her establish a compliant business space—not to circumvent regulations. While I commend their humanitarian spirit,” he remarked.

However, the presidential son stressed that goodwill should never compromise legal standards.



“Though well-intentioned, I categorically oppose any conduct that disregards Lagos State laws.

“Our city’s prosperity hinges on discipline, just as our nation’s stability requires collective adherence to legal frameworks. Compassion must align with civic responsibility,” Seyi emphasized.

He advocated for responsible philanthropy that simultaneously improves lives while upholding community standards and legal requirements.

Seyi Tinubu's statement

The clarification came after viral social media reports credited Seyi with financing Martins’ foundation following her controversial street cooking incident.

Martins, founder of Golden Heart Foundation, had accused Lagos Environmental Sanitation Corps officers of forcibly interrupting her charity food distribution on a Lekki road divider, confiscating her cooking gear and allegedly causing minor burn injuries.

The incident triggered online outrage, prompting undisclosed donors to assist Martins in securing proper facilities for her humanitarian work.

Her Instagram announcement claiming, “President Tinubu’s son has donated ₦20 million and pledged to elevate my food outreach program” ignited widespread speculation about presidential involvement.

Lagos State authorities have justified their enforcement actions, with Environment Commissioner Tokunbo Wahab reiterating that while charitable efforts are commendable, they must observe urban planning and public safety ordinances.

The commissioner emphasized that median strip operations create traffic hazards and violate environmental codes, requiring proper authorization regardless of noble intentions.