Digital content creator Sheryl Gabriella has publicly apologised to her fans, corporate partners and the wider public after an intimate video circulated online, triggering widespread criticism and prompting intervention from the Digital Content Creators Association of Kenya (DCCAK).
In a statement shared on her social media platforms, Gabriella maintained that the explicit footage was published without her knowledge or consent, describing the incident as a serious violation of her privacy.
She also confirmed that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is actively investigating the leak and tracking those responsible for distributing the video.
The apology comes hours after DCCAK reportedly issued the influencer with a seven-day ultimatum, warning that it could pursue regulatory action, including engaging the Communications Authority of Kenya (CAK), if she failed to address the controversy publicly.
In her statement, Gabriella acknowledged the impact the incident had on those who support her professionally and personally.
“First and foremost, I sincerely apologise to anyone who has been affected or disappointed by the circulation of this content,” she said.
“I understand the concern that this matter has raised among my fans, partners, colleagues and members of the public.”
The content creator said she regrets the discomfort caused by the controversy, particularly to the brands she works with and the supporters who have helped build her online career.
She pledged to continue conducting herself professionally despite the ongoing legal process.
“I remain committed to conducting myself professionally and responsibly,” she added.
While apologising, Gabriella stressed that she did not authorise the release of the intimate video.
She described the circulation of the footage as a deeply personal violation that had exposed her to public ridicule, online abuse and emotional distress.
“I have been deeply affected by the violation of my privacy,” she said.
According to Gabriella, the unauthorised sharing of the video subjected her to insults, judgment and harassment that she would not wish on anyone.
“I allow the legal process to take its course,” she stated.
Gabriella confirmed that the matter has been reported to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations.
She said detectives are working to identify the individuals responsible for distributing the video and that she is fully cooperating with authorities.
Gabriella’s apology followed mounting pressure from the Digital Content Creators Association of Kenya. The association gave the influencer seven days to publicly address the controversy, warning that failure to do so could result in regulatory action.
According to DCCAK, creators who represent brands and command large audiences have a responsibility to uphold professional standards while maintaining public trust. The association also indicated it could seek intervention from the Communications Authority of Kenya should the matter remain unresolved.
The controversy was further amplified by Gabriella’s initial reaction to criticism.
Before issuing her apology, the content creator dismissed some of her detractors, telling them not to compare her with their “broke girlfriends.” She also claimed to earn more than Sh500,000 every month through brand partnerships, comments that many social media users interpreted as dismissive and insensitive.
Those remarks drew fresh criticism, with some accusing the influencer of showing little remorse during the early stages of the controversy.
