By Nigeria’s sports minister sides with Alex Iwobi, condemns cyber bullying
Ghazali Ibrahim
John Owan Enoh, the Minister of Sports Development, has on Tuesday issued strong condemnation against cyber bullying targeting Alex Iwobi and other sports personalities.
In a statement released by the Minister on Tuesday on his official X handle, Enoh emphasized the need for support, kindness, and grace towards athletes who represent the nation on the global stage.
The statement reads, “I strongly condemn the cyber bullying of Alex Iwobi or any other sports man or woman,” stated Minister Enoh.
“They give a lot if not all of themselves when representing our Nation, the least we can do is rally support for them, be kind and gracious with words and actions towards them.”
The minister’s statement comes as a rebuttal to recent instances of online harassment directed at Alex Iwobi, who was part of the Nigerian team that secured a silver medal in the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
He highlighted Iwobi’s significant contribution to the team’s success, noting that the last time Nigeria won a silver medal at AFCON was twenty-three years ago in 2000.
Addressing the footballer, Enoh said, “Dear Alex Iwobi, be strong, you were part of a team that brought home a silver medal from AFCON 2023. Cyber bullies do not determine what the leadership of the country, the rest of Nigerians including myself, think of you. You did your best, gave over fourth days for the love of the nation.”
“We applaud you. We are proud of you, keep soaring,” Minister Enoh concluded.
