Nigerian rapper Falz and comedian Ayo Makun better known as AY have defended Super Eagles star Alex Iwobi over the cyberbullying of the player.
Iwobi, who featured for the Super Eagles at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), was the subject of cyberbullying from fans after Nigeria lost the final of the competition to hosts Ivory Coast.
While the footballer had in the wake of the development deleted photos from his Instagram handle for fear of further abuse, Falz has come to the player’s defence.
“We win together, we lose together,” the singer wrote on his Instagram page, posting a photo of Iwobi.
“Every single player that puts on the green white green to represent us, is making an immense sacrifice and does not deserve to be treated with this much disdain. We speak a lot about cyber bullying but we are so quick to turn against our own. @alexanderiwobi Love you bro! Thank you,” he maintained.
Reechoing Falz’s message, AY condemned the attacks against Iwobi, worrying about the spread of malicious information on the internet.
“Anyone can become a victim of cyberbullying. Malicious information posted on the Internet can spread far and wide in an instant, and it is always difficult to be deleted completely,” AY wrote.
“The immediacy of the spread makes it hard for victims to defend themselves or take precautions. The harm caused by cyberbullying is always ignored by computer or mobile phone users.
“It is so sad to see how you all have exhibited various forms of cyberbullying on a young man whose only crime was to come and represent his fatherland. Tomorrow, you all will still be wondering why the likes of Saka and others are never going to play for Nigeria.”
“It’s time to think beyond your personal interests and look at the negative effects of your evil actions. Let’s help promote a culture of care and respect on the Internet and prevent cyberbullying. Kindly share a ❤️ for @alexanderiwobi on this post,” the post reads.
The Minister of Sports Development John Enoh had also met with Iwobi and rued the abuse the Fulham player faced after the AFCON.
