Popular TikToker Nyako has publicly accused renowned comedian and philanthropist Eric Omondi of stealing her idea for the ‘Sisi Kwa Sisi’ program. This controversy has sparked a heated debate among their followers and the general public.
Nyako, who has gained a significant following for her philanthropic efforts, claims that she was the first to initiate a fundraising program aimed at helping the needy. During a live session on TikTok, she expressed her frustration, stating, “I was the first one. Even Eric Omondi stole my idea of helping people. That was my idea of collecting money on social media and helping the needy. I am the one who started it”.
Nyako’s assertion is rooted in her past efforts to raise funds for individuals in need. She has been involved in various fundraising activities, including raising KSh 500,000 for former Citizen TV journalist Kimani Mbugua in September 2023. Her followers have often praised her for her dedication to helping others, which has only fueled her claims against Omondi.
Omondi, known for his ‘Sisi Kwa Sisi’ initiative, which has seen the completion of projects like a footbridge in Kisii, a fundraising campaign for the burial of Kennedy Onyango, the young boy who was shot 8 times by the police in Ongata Rongai during the Gen Z protests, has refuted Nyako’s claims.
In an interview, Omondi emphasized that the concept of helping others is not new and cannot be attributed to a single individual. He stated, “Helping people has been there since the world began. I don’t think this is something you can say someone stole from you”.
Omondi’s ‘Sisi Kwa Sisi’ program has garnered widespread attention and support, further complicating the dispute. His efforts to assist communities and individuals in need have been well-documented, and he maintains that his work is a continuation of a long-standing tradition of philanthropy.
The public reaction to this dispute has been mixed. Supporters of Nyako argue that her pioneering efforts in online fundraising should be recognized and respected. They believe that her work laid the groundwork for similar initiatives and that she deserves credit for her contributions.
On the other hand, Omondi’s supporters argue that the idea of helping others is universal and cannot be owned by any one person. They commend Omondi for his tangible contributions to society and believe that his work should not be overshadowed by these accusations.
