Nigeria Super Eagles captain, Ahmed Musa has urged fans to desist from the act of cyber bullying of Super Eagles midfielder, Alex Iwobi after the African Cup of Nations final loss, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Alex Iwobi became a subject of social media criticisms following Nigeria's defeat to host nation, Cote D'Ivoire on Sunday at the Alassane Quattara Stadium Ebimpe, Abidjan.
The Eagles lost 1-2 despite being in the lead in the first half and some quarters of the Nigerian fans have let out their frustrations on the Fulham player who was described to have a poor tournament even though the team reached the final of the AFCON.
Musa has now urged the fans to show some respect to Iwobi who gave his all for the nation through out the tournament.
He went further to describe the actions of the fans as unfair, asking them to show love rather than show negativity.
"Dear fans, I want to please urge you to halt the cyber-bullying directed towards Alex Iwobi. Cyber bullying is not just a violation of decency but also a serious crime. It's hypocritical to claim that football unites us while engaging in such behavior.
Losing a game is undoubtedly tough, but targeting a single player for the team's shortcomings is unfair and unjust. We win as a team, and we lose as a team. Alex gave his all on the field, just like every member of our squad.
Instead of spreading negativity, let's show genuine love and support to our players. They need our encouragement now more than ever. Let's uplift each other and stand united, both in victory and defeat. ???? THANKS" Musa's words on X.
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Other players of the team like stand in captain, William Troost-Ekong, Terem Moffi, Kenneth Omeruo, Joe Aribo and the likes have come out in solidarity for Iwobi through their social media handles.
Uche Dozie