Nollywood actress Toyin Abraham is facing backlash on social media after reporting trolls to the police for cyberbullying. The trolls had attacked her for supporting President Bola Tinubu during the 2023 general election.
During the 2022 election campaign, Abraham publicly endorsed Tinubu, expressing confidence in his ‘Renewed Hope’ action plans to tackle national issues. Several other Yoruba movie stars also supported Tinubu and campaigned for him.
Since Tinubu’s inauguration on May 29, 2023, the country’s economy has struggled. His administration’s decision to end fuel subsidies caused the price of Premium Motor Spirit to surge from N185 to over N700. Additionally, the Central Bank of Nigeria’s move to float the naira led to its continuous depreciation against the dollar, trading between N1,200 and N1,500.
These economic changes have pushed more Nigerians into poverty, sparking criticism. Abraham, who has consistently defended her political choice, has been particularly targeted. Many netizens expected her to address how Tinubu would solve the nation’s problems.
In response to the backlash, Abraham stated on X (formerly Twitter) that she has focused on her acting career and learned not to be openly political again. Despite her explanations, the criticism continued.
One user, #YVRLO, directed harsh comments at Abraham and her family, prompting her to take legal action. Her spokesman clarified, “It is not an abuse of power; it’s a fight against cyberbullying. Everyone must understand that actions have consequences, especially online.”
Recently, another user, #Ayo, accused Abraham of using Tinubu’s money for her husband’s hair transplant. Abraham reported him for cyberbullying, leading to his arrest.
Following this, a user, Ajebo Danny, commented, “Hello @Toyin_Abraham, you will have to send the police to pick all of us. You are shameless.” Abraham responded, “You can abuse me and call me names; it is fine, and as I said, I will accept and take it in cos I’m in the public eyes, but cursing my kids and lying is what I won’t accept, and lastly I NEVER and will NEVER arrest anyone’s mum. I made a report on cybercrime as a citizen.”