The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) has warned social media activist, VeryDarkMan, against further involving Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, in the controversy surrounding humanitarian donations to content creator Mitchelle Mukoro, popularly known as King Mitchy.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, the Council said what began as a personal dispute between two influencers had gradually taken on political undertones, with potential social and psychological effects on young Nigerians who consume such content online.
Executive Director of the Council, Blessing Akinlosotu, explained that although the matter initially appeared to be a private disagreement, the mention of the President’s son and the tone of the exchanges on social media made it necessary for the group to intervene.
According to the NCSCN, the controversy escalated after King Mitchy revealed that her humanitarian projects had received financial support amounting to millions of naira from Seyi Tinubu. The disclosure reportedly triggered public criticism from VeryDarkMan, who questioned the donation and allegedly used harsh language while casting doubts on the intentions behind it.
The Council maintained that philanthropic donations to charitable causes, whether by public figures or private individuals, are lawful and common practice worldwide, and should not automatically be politicised.
“In our view, dragging Seyi Tinubu into the matter in the manner it was done was unnecessary,” the Council stated, adding that support for non-governmental initiatives should be encouraged rather than condemned, provided such contributions are made in good faith.
The group also expressed concern over certain videos shared by both parties, noting that some of the content depicted the use of harmful substances in ways that could negatively influence teenagers and minors.
“These portrayals are socially harmful and potentially damaging to mental health. Content creators must recognise their responsibility to vulnerable audiences,” the Council warned.
Describing itself as a non-partisan special interest group, the NCSCN said it found nothing wrong with donations made to King Mitchy or even to VeryDarkMan, as long as the motives were not malicious. It commended Seyi Tinubu’s philanthropic activities, particularly his support for youth, student and civil society groups, and argued that such gestures should be appreciated rather than criticised.
The Council cautioned against focusing excessively on the identity of donors instead of the impact of the charity work, warning that doing so could discourage other well-meaning Nigerians from supporting social causes.
While calling on VeryDarkMan to apologise for what it described as inflammatory remarks, the Council also advised King Mitchy to handle public disagreements with greater restraint and emotional intelligence.
It further urged regulatory bodies, including the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), to pay closer attention to online content, noting that unchecked toxic narratives could threaten national unity and public well-being.
The Council concluded by stressing that activism should be guided by patriotism, professionalism and sensitivity to national security and citizens’ mental health.
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