Influencer's fake kidnapping incident sparks online fury; she says it was her 'attempt to have fun'

Victoria Rose, a social media influencer known as Woah Vicky, has sparked outrage after admitting to faking her own kidnapping during a trip to Nigeria. The influencer, with over 3.7 million followers on Instagram, orchestrated the prank by posting alarming messages on X (formerly Twitter) and other platforms, claiming she had been abducted.

One now-deleted post, purportedly from her “captors,” read: “I have kidnapped Vicky. She is with me in Nigeria. I am demanding $1 million for her release.” The messages left her followers and friends deeply concerned, with some reportedly filing a police complaint.

A 'Prank' Gone Wrong

Rose confessed to the hoax during an Instagram Live session, saying, “We kind of got carried away with the joke. I don’t drink or go to the club, so this is how I find my entertainment.” She described the incident as a misguided attempt to have fun, citing boredom as her motive. “The Bible says laughter is good for the soul. So I’d be wanting to laugh, and this is how I find that funny,” she added.



Despite her attempt to frame the stunt as harmless fun, Rose acknowledged the gravity of her actions, saying, “I take accountability and ownership. I’m sorry for anyone that I harmed in the process.” She further apologized on X, stating, “Not thinking things through comes with consequences, and I’m paying for it now.”

Criticism from Followers

Rose’s followers were quick to condemn her actions, with one commenting, “Lying about being kidnapped is some nasty work!!” Another wrote, “Isn’t this a f***** crime?”* Many expressed disbelief over her casual attitude toward such a serious matter, with some calling her behavior deeply disturbing.

The backlash extended beyond her immediate circle of followers. Critics accused Rose of trivializing genuine issues of kidnapping and creating unnecessary panic. Her apology, though earnest in tone, failed to pacify many who felt her actions reflected poorly on her character.

Past Controversies

This is not the first time Woah Vicky has faced criticism for her online behavior. Recently, she stirred controversy with a post about her preferences in a romantic partner, stating she was looking for a “successful Black athlete.” Her comment was met with backlash, as many accused her of objectifying a demographic.

In an Instagram post tagged to Lagos, Nigeria, Rose shared a photo with a man, fueling further speculation among her followers. Critics questioned if the individual was involved in the hoax.

Addressing the controversy, Rose reiterated her remorse, saying, “I also apologize for how this situation reflects on me — I never intended to make any Black man or any country, especially Nigeria, look bad. If it came across that way, I’m truly sorry. I love Nigeria, I love my brother, father, and I love my people.”

While Rose has expressed regret, her actions have left a lasting impact, with many questioning the ethics of influencers using extreme measures to gain attention.

The incident has reignited debates about the lengths to which influencers go for engagement. One user summed up the sentiments of many, writing, “Real funny because it’s not like anyone has ever been killed or falsely imprisoned for stupid s** like this.”

Rose’s attempt at humor has become a cautionary tale about the consequences of irresponsible behavior on social media.