Scamfluencers: ENCORE - Gossip Girls | Part 1

Released on March 3, 2025

Introduction

In the "ENCORE: Gossip Girls | Part 1" episode of Scamfluencers by Wondery, hosts Scaachi Koul and Sarah Hagie revisit a compelling story from their earlier episodes. This installment delves deeper into the lives of Canadian sisters Kiran and Jyoti Mathuru, exploring their ascent into luxury through high-profile relationships and the ensuing controversies that threaten to unravel their glamorous facade.

Meet the Mathuru Sisters

Kiran and Jyoti Mathuru hail from Etobicoke, Ontario, Canada. Both enrolled in a fashion business program at Humber College, the sisters were inseparable from a young age, sharing a passion for fashion and socializing. Their early years were marked by an affinity for high fashion and nightlife, often seen frequenting upscale clubs and meticulously curating their online presence.

Jyoti Mathuru [07:37]: "This story brings us to Etobicoke."

Their dedication to crafting a sophisticated image set the stage for their later ventures into the world of luxury and influence.

The Rise in Lagos

The sisters' lives took a dramatic turn when they met Chris, a charming Nigerian businessman, in 2008. His allure and opulent lifestyle introduced them to a network of affluent individuals across the globe. This relationship ushered them into the elite circles of Lagos, Nigeria, where they immersed themselves in a life of luxury, attending exclusive parties and building a significant online following through their blog, Matropolitan.

Kiran Mathuru [13:11]: "I used to call a selfie a close up. So when you take your camera and you take a picture, which I always."

Their blog featured glamorous lifestyles, garnering thousands of followers and attracting lucrative partnership opportunities with various brands. The sisters embraced their roles as socialites, leveraging their connections to maintain their luxurious lifestyles.

Controversy and the Birth of Naija Just Live

As their influence grew, the Mathuru sisters became targets of Nigerian gossip blogs. Naija Just Live, an unregulated and anonymous platform, began posting explosive allegations about the sisters, accusing them of unethical behaviors and questionable relationships with powerful men. These posts painted the sisters in a negative light, causing significant reputational damage.

Jyoti Mathuru [24:24]: "'They fly to any part of the world. Monaco, London, Paris. Inclusive to pleasure the loins and vanities of their super rich clients.'"

Despite vehemently denying these allegations, labeling them as "disgusting lies," the sisters found themselves ensnared in a web of scandal that attracted both media attention and public scrutiny.

The Downfall: Arrest by SARS

The situation escalated when in October 2016, Babatunde Oye Body, a web designer and aspiring rapper, was identified as the man behind Naija Just Live. Following this revelation, the sisters were abruptly arrested by SARS (Special Anti-Robbery Squad), a notorious division of the Nigerian police known for human rights abuses.

During their detention, Kiran and Jyoti faced aggressive interrogation without proper legal representation, being forced to confront accusations they staunchly denied. The sisters' lack of fluency in Nigerian Pidgin and unfamiliarity with local legal protocols further complicated their situation.

Kiran Mathuru [37:20]: "I was just like, okay, what do you want me to write? Tell me."

Their harrowing experience highlighted the vulnerabilities faced by foreigners caught in local legal systems, especially amidst high-profile scandals.

Conclusion and Teaser for Part 2

"ENCORE: Gossip Girls | Part 1" sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the Mathuru sisters' tumultuous journey. As Kiran and Jyoti navigate the complexities of fame, influence, and scandal, the episode promises to unravel the intricate dynamics that led to their rise and the subsequent challenges that threatened to dismantle their lives.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where the hosts will continue to uncover the layers of deception, power struggles, and the ultimate resolution of the sisters' ordeal.

Notable Quotes

• Sarah Hagie [05:08]: "There's no need to wait any longer. Speed up your hiring right now with Indeed."

• Jyoti Mathuru [24:56]: "I don't like how they're just these villains and these poor men can't resist these sisters."

• Kiran Mathuru [37:12]: "He looked confused, like, oh, you've been posted on it. Like, I thought you owned it."

This detailed summary captures the essence of the "Gossip Girls | Part 1" episode, providing an engaging overview for new listeners while highlighting key moments and quotes that define the sisters' narrative.