Nigeria’s Minister of Sports Development, John Enoh, engaged in a conversation with Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi, who has been facing online bullying for his performance at the recently concluded 2023 Africa Cup of Nations finals.
“I have taken myself off social media, so I am no longer aware of what is going on,” Iwobi informed the sports minister in an interview on Monday.
“I went off [social media] after yesterday’s game,” he added.
News Central reported that Iwobi faced heavy criticism from football supporters who were not impressed with his performance on the pitch, holding him responsible for Ivory Coast’s 2-1 victory against Nigeria in the final stage of the tournament.
In response to the harsh criticisms, Iwobi deleted all his Instagram posts and took a break from social media.
The issue gained widespread attention, with many condemning the act of bullying football players when a team fails to meet expectations.
Iwobi’s colleague, Ahmed Musa, urged supporters on Monday to stop bullying Iwobi and instead, show love and support to the entire team in both victory and defeat.
Discussing cyber-bullying in sports, Enoh mentioned that it was not the first time the ministry would be confronted with incidents of bullying men and women in sports due to the outcomes of competitions. He said it was a matter of concern that was being addressed.
“We are concerned about this,” he told Iwobi.
Enoh also offered words of encouragement to the player, urging him to keep his head high despite the social media attacks on his performance.
“You did your best for your country, so there’s nothing anybody is saying that should make you feel otherwise. I am very proud of you, and I believe that the rest of the country is. Those who are [not proud of you] are in the minority, far far minority, and they do not speak for me. They do not speak for our country, and they do not speak for the leadership of our country.
“This is why Mr. President himself is going to receive all of you and say ‘thank you for a job well done.’ So, stay strong. You’re returning home with a silver medal which the country last won in the year 2000. You all put in your best, and I am very proud of you,” Senator Enoh said.
The interview concluded with a warm embrace as the sports minister encouraged Iwobi to stay strong through this challenging phase.
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