Former Big Brother Naija Season 6 housemate, Samuel Alifa, popularly known as Sammie, has denied allegations that he defrauded a businessman of ₦4.4 million in connection with the BBNaija audition process.

The controversy erupted after a businessman, Emmanuel Idakwo, accused Sammie of scamming him while allegedly offering to help him secure a spot in the Big Brother Naija house.

In an interview with Punch, Idakwo claimed that Sammie convinced him to pay a total of ₦4.4 million, promising that the money was refundable whether or not he made it into the house.

“I Trusted Him Because We’re from the Same Tribe” — Idakwo

Idakwo explained that he trusted Sammie based on their shared roots from Kogi State and Igala ethnic background. Despite knowing that BBNaija organizers do not charge fees for auditions, he said Sammie made it seem like the process had changed.

“He told me that even if I didn’t make it into the house, the money would still be refunded… that it was a new twist to that season,” Idakwo alleged.

He also claimed that Sammie paid a portion on his behalf before informing him, pressuring him into repaying the sum in 16 instalments. According to Idakwo, he had to sell his car to cover the payments and only became suspicious when Sammie failed to provide a refund.

Sammie Responds: “I Did Not Scam Anyone”

In response to the allegation, Sammie firmly denied defrauding Idakwo or promising him a spot on the reality show. Speaking to journalists, the ex-BBNaija housemate stated:

“I truly appreciate your concern and your interest in hearing my side of the story. However, just as I’ve shared with other journalists, I would prefer not to speak on this matter at the moment. I want to be clear that I did not scam anyone, nor did I promise to get him on the show.”

BBNaija: No Shortcuts to the House

This incident has reignited conversations around fake agents and false promises related to BBNaija auditions. The show’s organizers have repeatedly warned the public that auditions are free and that no individual can guarantee a slot in the house.

As of now, neither Multichoice nor the BBNaija production team has released an official statement regarding the ongoing dispute.