A Nigerian man, Brendan Nwabichie, whose
car was destroyed during the UK riots said a new Go Fund Me link has been opened on his behalf.
Nwabichie said this on Monday in a statement posted on the X account of the Nigerians in the UK Community.
“Hello everyone, I would Ike to address the recent happenings about the solidarity provided to me during the Middlesbrough riots tragedy,” he said.
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“My car was intentionally destroyed as part of a racist attack most of you are aware. This has been a very difficult time for me, and I want to express my appreciation for all the messages and kindness from people that have helped me.
“Firstly, it is important that I state what happened factually. Please note that I am a student and a zero hour contracted employee at Clare’s Care care agency.
“Claires Care via their own initiative publicised my story and launched a Go Fund Me campaign when they learned about my ordeal. Their initial target was £3.000 so that I could buy another car but because of the overwhelming support from the community, the amount raised was much higher than expected at £65000.
“It was decided after debates encouraged by Claires Care that I would be given £28k out of these funds. This money is to be used in the purchase of a second hand Peugeot, with which it will also be possible to pay insurance fees, rent at any place where | can feel safe and secure and help me pay my school fees without worrying about anything else.
“I felt really grateful for this gesture meant to assist me recover some normalcy into my life but I must correct some misrepresentation that has been going round.
“There was an unconfirmed statement that went viral recently claiming that I will not get anything from the GoFundMe campaign. This unverified statement caused unnecessary confusion and strain on both my credibility and the intentions of Claires Care.
“Subsequently Claire’s Care has unfortunately posted some defamatory and misleading statements, of which have added to my anxiety in returning to work with them.”
Nwabichie said what matters most now is his safety and well being and for this reason, Black British Culture UK have set up another Go Fund Me link for him.
He said he was contacted by Nigerians In The UK (NIUK) to verify and ensure he is linked to that page. Nwabichie added that the link has now been confirmed.
“I am once more appreciative of all who have showed up to support me in these hard times. I am aware there have been concerns about the money raised through the GoFundMe account which was initiated by Claire’s Care,” he said.
“The verification and distribution of funds will be done by GoFundMe all aimed at ensuring their proper use. If anyone who donated wants a refund, they can contact GoFundMe directly.
“Moreover, the NIUK community have come forward to help me find safe shelter and access to mental support services. I appreciate their generosity and kindness.
“Lastly, I thank everyone who has stood with me during this tough time in my life. To all the strangers who have led with their genuine generosity, I am touched by your support. My focus is on moving forward, rebuilding my life and staying safe.
“I hope that we can all work together to keep the focus on positivity and support, and I ask that we remain respectful and give me time to process what is happening in real time for me.”