South African influencer Mihlali Ndamase and sportsman Tolu Arokodare have both unfollowed each other on Instagram.
This action followed a series of provocative social media claims from Tolu’s ex-girlfriend, leading to both stars, along with Mihlali’s mother, to hit the unfollow button.
Here’s how this widely reported social media conflict unfolded.
The beginning: Dubai and rejections (2025)
The first indications of a potential relationship between Mihlali and Tolu emerged during a 2025 trip to Dubai. Fans speculated wildly when Mihlali referred to Tolu as “my love” in a post. However, Tolu quickly dispelled the rumors via Instagram with a direct statement:
“Y’all are killing me with these posts. I’m single. Please stop abeg. These posts about me are false.”
This strong denial seemed to silence speculation until their trip to Europe reignited the chatter.
The turning point: Luxury yachts and the Monaco Grand Prix (2026)
By early June 2026, the rumor mill was stirred again at the Monaco Grand Prix when the two were seen on the same luxurious yacht.
Mihlali, 29, showcased the extravagant experience on her Instagram, featuring designer fashion and two Hermès Birkin bags (with a total estimated value ranging from R495,000 to nearly R1 million), which she claimed to have purchased in Dubai in 2025.
Despite public assumption of a romantic connection and the luxury display adding fuel to the fire, 25-year-old Tolu again denied any relationship.
The escalation: Pam Mlunjwana intervenes
On 9 June 2026, the situation intensified dramatically when Tolu’s ex, Zimbabwean influencer Pam Mlunjwana, addressed the matter on her Instagram Stories. She accused Mihlali of using the footballer to gain notoriety and involved her in a misleading narrative.
Over time, Pam made several claims, including:
- Fake lifestyles: Pam argued that Mihlali faked the Dubai romance and either purchased replica Birkin bags or fabricated her story to increase social media engagement, a serious allegation given that authentic Birkins in those styles can fetch between R245,000 and R495,000 each on the luxury resale market.
- Motives for fame: Pam asserted that Mihlali uses rumors of relationships with prominent figures to elevate her public persona and financial status, noting that she had been historically more generous to Tolu during their own relationship.
- Ex-partner revelations: Pam shared a message she alleged was from Mihlali’s former partner, businessman Leeroy Sidambe, reaching out to her privately.
- Desire for respect: Pam expressed her frustration at being dragged into “girl vs. girl” gossip, desiring to keep her family’s name, involved in business in Dubai, dissociated from controversies surrounding love interests.
Additionally, Pam has taken to showcasing her Birkin bags online, featuring a rare blue Hermès Birkin bag adorned with designer jewelry.
Considering the high resale value of the blue Birkin along with the numerous intricate designer chains used for decoration, the total value is estimated to range from R450,000 to over R700,000.
Tolu Arokodare appears indifferent to the surrounding drama online. Meanwhile, Mihlali Ndamase continues with her established brand approach: to remain silent, unfollow, excel in fashion and beauty, and maintain a calm exterior.
