Mirabel: How false rape alarm turned into money-making venture
A viral social media incident involving a Nigerian TikTok content creator known as Mirabel has taken a controversial turn after what began as an emotional allegation of sexual assault was later revealed to be fabricated, sparking public outrage and legal implications.
In a video posted on TikTok on February 15, Mirabel claimed she had been raped in her apartment in the Ogijo area of Ogun State, describing in graphic detail how an intruder allegedly attacked her. The video quickly gained millions of views across platforms, with many social media users and celebrities condemning sexual violence and calling for justice.
However, investigations and online scrutiny soon uncovered inconsistencies in her story, prompting scepticism from netizens and some influencers who began analysing her narration and the timeline of events.
Sympathy turns into financial support
While the video circulated, Mirabel shared her bank account details with followers, and several well-known online personalities and everyday users sent money in solidarity. Reports indicate that transfers ranging from hundreds of thousands to millions of naira were made to her account by supporters moved by her emotional account. Some online commentators later estimated total donations to be between ₦1 million and ₦5 million before doubts about the claim surfaced.
Confession and backlash
The narrative shifted dramatically when a recorded phone conversation between Mirabel and Nigerian social media personality Martins “VeryDarkMan” Otse went viral. In the audio clip, she allegedly admitted that portions of her rape allegation were untrue and that she had even created a secondary TikTok account to send herself threatening messages to make the story more convincing.
Following this confession, many donors expressed anger online, demanding refunds and warning that false allegations risk undermining public trust in genuine survivors of sexual violence. Advocates emphasised that such incidents can discourage real victims from coming forward and make it harder for authorities to take authentic claims seriously.
Legal and social responses
Authorities in Ogun State have confirmed that Mirabel has been discharged from medical care and is now under police custody for further questioning. Senior police officials stated she is expected to be arraigned in court, with charges likely to focus on giving false information and misleading the public — offences that carry legal penalties under Nigerian law.
The case has triggered widespread comment from public figures, including calls for stricter punishment for false accusers and reminders that rape allegations are serious matters that require evidence and due process.
As the controversy unfolds, the incident has renewed conversations about responsible use of social media, the impact of online sympathy campaigns, and the importance of protecting both genuine survivors and the integrity of public discourse.
