Minister Of Sports Rallies Support For Iwobi Amidst Online Bullying

Nigeria’s Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh, has sent a message of support to Super Eagles midfielder, Alex Iwobi, who has been a subject of social media bullying.

Iwobi has been a victim of abuse on social media after the Super Eagles lost in the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

He deleted all his Instagram pictures on Monday and turned off the comments session on his page to avoid further bullying.

The minster of sports had a meeting with the Fulham midfielder on Monday to express his support and hailed his performance in the tournament.

The minister said: “I am aware of what is happening on social media and as a ministry , this isn’t the first time we are going to make a statement against bullying, not just you but our sportsmen and women in general who are exposed to bullying due to the out come of competitions. We are concerned about how our sportsmen and women are treated“.

Iwobi confirmed to the minister that he has taken the decision to leave social media after the defeat due to the abuses.

“For me , i have taken myself out of social media after yesterday’s game”.

The minister has encouraged Iwobi to overlook the bullying from the minority because majority of Nigerians are proud of him.

John Enoh said: “You did your best for your country and i am proud of you.The leadership and the rest of the country is proud of you.Those who are not are in the far minority and do not speak for the rest of our country, so just be strong”.

“You did your best, you are part of a team that brought home a silver medal which the country last won at AFCON 2000, which is 23 years ago.You put in your best, thank you very much “.

The minister condemned any activity that aims to bully or harm any Nigerian athlete.