A talent management agency, the Tokindrumz Management, says Chinedu Ani, popularly known as Nedu Wazobia, did not defraud anyone with a fake scholarship scheme as alleged by a social crusader, VeryDarkMan, VDM.
Nedu was the host of the Honest Bunch podcast where a guest recently made allegations about VDM’s sexual orientation which led to a social media war where VDM claimed that Nedu used his NGO to commit fraud.
Addressing a news briefing at the Oniru Estate, Lekki, Lagos, the Chief Operations Officer of the Tokindrumz Management, Ms Sarah Williams-Konha said there was the Nedu Scholarship Foundation was promoted by the celebrity presenter but that he did not receive any money into his personal account.
Ms Williams-Konha, said the Tokindrumz Management was the funds manager and that the scholarship scheme had stalled because the partners pulled out of the initiative at the last minute.
She said the agency had been invited by the police following an petition and that the police had cleared it of any wrongdoing and advised parties to the scholarship scheme to seek an out of court settlement.
Ms Williams-Konha said the Agency had begun the process of seeking legal redress against VDM for his defamatory utterances.
On VDM’s claim that Nedu was sleeping with female guests on the show, Ms Williams-Konha said the agency would not respond to gossips and hearsays.
In his reaction, Nedu Wazobia said he had not been fired as the host or the Honest Bunch podcast.
He said he was among the initiators of the podcast and that he only stepped aside to preserve the initiative from suffering from negative publicity.
Nedu, who said he was never friends with VDM, explained that everyone had a right of reply on the Honest Bunch podcast and that it would be wrong to stop guests from speaking their mind on the show when the focus of the show was to encourage open conversation about difficult issues.
See the follow up statement in full:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nedu Wazobia Denies Fraud Allegations, Reaffirms Commitment to Education and Philanthropy, Announces Legal Action
Lagos, Nigeria – Thursday 20th February 2025
Renowned media personality and philanthropist Nedu Wazobia, through his management team at Tokindrumz, has categorically denied recent allegations of fraud and financial misconduct. In a firm statement, Nedu reaffirmed his unwavering dedication to education, philanthropy, and social impact, while announcing decisive legal action against false claims aimed at tarnishing his reputation.
Key Highlights
- Absolute Denial of Fraud and Financial Misconduct
Nedu Wazobia and Tokindrumz Management unequivocally refute all allegations of fraud concerning the Nedu Scholarship Foundation (NDSCHF).
Commitment to Financial Transparency: All funds for the NDSCHF initiative were managed by a globally recognized social enterprise, ensuring full accountability. At no point did Nedu personally handle or control donations.
Public Access to Records: Comprehensive financial documents, vendor agreements, and communications have been submitted to relevant authorities and are available for review. - Nedu Scholarship Foundation (NDSCHF) – Championing Educational Access
Mission: To provide full scholarships to 1,000 underprivileged Nigerian students over two years (£10,000 per student), ensuring access to quality education.
Strategic Partnerships: Collaborating with an esteemed international social enterprise to maintain strict financial oversight and execution.
Fundraising Achievements:
Three fundraising events scheduled (Lagos, Abuja, London).
Lagos Event (January 2024): Successfully raised ₦19 million in pledges and ₦4.1 million in direct donations, supported by celebrities such as Timaya and Casey.
Strict Financial Oversight: All payments to vendors, including event organizers, PR teams, and logistics providers, were managed directly by Tokindrumz Management; no funds were deposited into Nedu’s personal accounts. - Beyond Education: Nedu’s Broader Philanthropic Footprint
Nedu Wazobia’s social impact extends far beyond education, with long-standing initiatives that include:
Support for Families and Women: Providing guidance on marriage, parenting, and personal growth.
Advocacy for Rape Victims: Offering emotional support, legal assistance, and public awareness campaigns.
Aid for the Sick and Vulnerable: Facilitating medical assistance, financial relief, and logistics support for those in need. - Legal Action Against Defamation
Zero Tolerance for False Allegations: Nedu has declared an end to unwarranted defamation, stating, “The ‘nice Nedu’ is dead and buried.”
Legal Measures in Motion: Proceedings have commenced against individuals and entities propagating misleading claims about NDSCHF and his personal integrity.
Reputation Protection Strategy: Nedu remains steadfast in defending his credibility while continuing his philanthropic mission. - Social Media Oversight & Misinformation Prevention
Professional Management: Nedu’s social media platforms are strictly supervised by his management team to prevent misinformation, unauthorized posts, or fraudulent activities.
Transparency Commitment: Official updates on the NDSCHF initiative, including donation records and impact reports, will continue to be shared through verified channels.
Statement from Nedu Wazobia
“My purpose is to uplift and empower Nigerians through education, advocacy, and tangible action. While I will no longer tolerate baseless allegations, my dedication to this cause remains unshaken. Let the facts speak for themselves.” — Nedu Wazobia