By Olatunbosun Obafemi
Philanthropist and businessman, Mr. Seyi Tinubu, has reportedly gifted Nollywood actress Sarah Martins the sum of ₦20 million following her unpleasant encounter with officials of the Lagos State Task Force in the Lekki area of Lagos.
The actress had taken to the streets of Lekki at the weekend to cook and distribute meals to the less privileged when she was allegedly accosted and harassed by task force officials, who attempted to stop her charitable activity on claims that she was obstructing public space.
The incident, captured in a video that quickly went viral on social media, showed the actress expressing dismay over the officials’ actions. The clip drew widespread criticism from Nigerians, who condemned the task force for what many described as an unnecessary show of force against a humanitarian act.
Days later, another video surfaced online showing Sarah Martins receiving an envelope reportedly containing ₦20 million from a lady said to be representing Seyi Tinubu. The gesture, according to reports, was Seyi Tinubu’s way of supporting the actress’s charitable outreach and encouraging her continued efforts to help the less privileged.
While many Nigerians took to social media to praise Seyi Tinubu for what they called a “compassionate and timely” act, others criticized the gesture, arguing that it reflected a growing culture of selective philanthropy rather than institutional reform.
Reactions on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram have remained divided, with some users lauding Tinubu for identifying with a good cause, while others questioned the motives behind such high-profile donations amid economic hardship faced by ordinary citizens.
Sarah Martins, known for her humanitarian initiatives and outspoken nature, has yet to issue an official statement on the gift, though close associates confirmed the donation, describing it as a “heartwarming show of encouragement.”
