Mirabel: From viral rape claim to alleged fundraising scandal

A TikToker who went viral with a rape allegation has admitted fabricating the story after receiving donations, and is now in police custody in Ogun State.

Nigerians were jolted on Monday after TikToker Abigail Nsuka, known as Mirabel, alleged she was raped in her apartment, a claim that quickly went viral and drew donations from sympathisers. In an emotional video, she recounted how she was attacked and later said a blade was used on her. Influencers and advocacy groups amplified her story, while donors reportedly transferred varying sums into her account.

However, scrutiny of her claims triggered controversy, with some social media users questioning inconsistencies. In a recorded audio conversation, she later admitted fabricating the incident, saying, “It might be a hallucination,” and confessing to creating messages to herself. The revelation sparked public anger, with many donors demanding refunds and expressing concern about the impact on genuine survivors.

Reacting, Josephine Effah-Chukwuma wrote, “What nonsense is this? Does she think rape is something to joke about, chase clout and make money from?” The Lagos State Domestic Violence Response Team stated, “Justice requires truth, evidence and due process.” Police spokesperson Oluseyi Babaseyi confirmed she is in custody, while lawyers noted she could face prosecution under laws prescribing up to three years’ imprisonment for false information.

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