Nollywood actress Sarah Martins has issued a public clarification and apology after receiving a warning from the Lagos State government over her recent street cooking activity.
The actress, founder of the Sarah Martins Golden Heart Foundation, explained that her actions were an emotional gesture aimed at reconnecting with vulnerable children, rather than a deliberate breach of environmental or sanitation laws.
The Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, had cautioned Martins on Saturday, stating that cooking on public roads constituted a violation of the law and could result in arrest or prosecution.
In response, Martins posted an open letter on her Instagram page on Sunday, insisting that the activity took place in a controlled environment and did not obstruct public movement or create a nuisance.
“I would like to respectfully clarify that I did not cook on the walkway or on the main street. The meal was prepared in front of the King’s Palace under the supervision of security personnel, and the activity took place well away from the main road, ensuring no disruption or public nuisance,” she wrote.
Martins emphasised that the event was a heartfelt attempt to engage with children she frequently encounters in the area.
The actress described the activity as a spontaneous response to requests from street children she has supported over time.
“The visit was simply born out of an emotional moment. I had deeply missed the bond I share with the vulnerable street children in that area,” she said.
She added that, as she occasionally drives past the area, the children often plead with her to cook with them as she had in the past.
“On this particular day, I decided to spend some time with them and prepare a meal, purely to reconnect and create memories with the kids who have always shown me genuine love,” she explained.
In her statement, Martins apologised for any perceived impropriety and reaffirmed her respect for Lagos State’s environmental laws.
“My brief return to that location was never intended to create any form of public nuisance, but simply to share a heartfelt moment with children who have continued to ask for my presence. However, if my actions were perceived as inappropriate in any way, I sincerely apologise. I hold the laws and environmental standards of Lagos State in the highest regard,” she said.
Martins also confirmed that all future charitable cooking activities would take place strictly within the dedicated kitchen provided for her foundation.
She expressed gratitude to Seyi Tinubu for facilitating the space, noting that the facility was specifically intended to ensure proper and organised execution of her feeding programmes.
“I do not take his generosity for granted, and my foundation has remained committed to using the charity kitchen for our regular feeding initiatives,” she added.
The incident is not the first time Martins has faced scrutiny over her street cooking activities. In October 2025, she was arrested by officials from the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (KAI) while cooking on a road median in Lekki, with her equipment seized. The government defended the operation, citing violations of environmental and sanitation regulations.
While Martins previously claimed to have received ₦20 million to support her activities, Seyi Tinubu clarified that the funds were raised by compassionate supporters and not donated personally, and reiterated that no act violating Lagos State law should be condoned.
As the actress continues her philanthropic work, she has pledged to ensure that all future engagements with children comply fully with state laws while maintaining the core mission of her foundation to support vulnerable communities.
