Super Eagles icon Austin ‘Jay-Jay’ Okocha has stepped up to defend his nephew, Alex Iwobi, who has been the target of cyberbullying following the Super Eagles’ loss in the 2023 AFCON final against Cote d’Ivoire on Sunday.
Since the defeat, Iwobi has faced harsh criticism, with some fans questioning coach Jose Peseiro’s decision to include him in the starting lineup against the host nation.
Despite Iwobi’s efforts during the match, where he played for 79 minutes before being replaced by Alhassan Yusuf, he became the subject of relentless attacks online, prompting the 27-year-old to take a break from social media.
Taking to Instagram on Tuesday, Okocha offered prayers for those engaging in the cyberbullying, urging them to recognize the value of treating others with kindness and respect.
“I pray for my country Nigeria and the people that can only hate and see nothing good in others. When effort counts for nothing, treat people the way you want them to treat you. All we have in this life is each other,” he wrote, expressing unwavering support for Iwobi.
Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa echoed Okocha’s sentiments, cautioning against the bullying of Iwobi. Assistant captain William Troost-Ekong and other team members also demonstrated solidarity with the embattled midfielder.
