Leon Balogun reveals NFF president’s plan on Alex Iwobi’s online abuse
Social media users severely criticised Alex Iwobi for his performance during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations competition
Super Eagles defender, Leon Balogun, has spoken out about the need to address social media abuse directed at football players, referencing the recent case involving Alex Iwobi, as reported by Soccernet.ng.
The Fulham star faced significant criticism and cyberbullying, prompting him to take a break from social media, following his performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations tournament.
During FIFPRO’s Workplace Safety For Footballers session on X (formerly Twitter) space, the Rangers FC defender discussed potential solutions to tackle online abuse directed at players.
Balogun emphasized the importance of establishing a code of conduct and holding individuals accountable for their actions. He suggested that fans engaging in abusive behavior should face severe consequences, including police intervention.
In response to the situation involving Alex Iwobi after the AFCON final, Balogun revealed discussions with the President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Ibrahim Gusau, regarding measures to address online abuse. This includes utilizing cybersecurity and law enforcement to identify and prosecute offenders.
“Probably the most effective way to go after people at this point in time is to really make examples, and go after them hard, use police force. I spoke to the President of the Nigeria Football Federation [Ibrahim Gusau] after what happened to Alex Iwobi after the AFCON final, and he said they are going to even use cybersecurity, like cyber police kind of to find out where this particular abuse stem from. Which i think it is a very extreme measure, but it is necessary.” he said as monitored by Soccernet.ng.
Despite the challenges, Iwobi recently returned to social media, sharing a rap song detailing his experiences at the club level and his commitment to the national team.
