Wife of the Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, has urged all stakeholders to take proactive steps toward making the digital space safe for every user, stressing that safeguarding the online environment is a shared responsibility.
Speaking with journalists in her office in Ado-Ekiti, Dr. Oyebanji emphasized that everyone has a role to play in tackling cyberbullying, noting that the impact of harmful online behaviour extends far beyond the screen.
She described the circulation of damaging content as devastating, explaining that such actions can traumatize victims, erode confidence, instill fear, destroy reputations, and even result in significant economic loss.
According to her, creating a safe online environment is non-negotiable, as everyone regardless of gender deserves the freedom to express themselves without fear of harassment or intimidation.
She added that cyberbullying can sometimes be more hurtful than physical abuse because of its deep psychological and long-lasting effects.
“While Nigerians are familiar with physical abuse, the world is now going digital, using cyberspace to inflict emotional harm. Technology is increasingly being weaponized to harass, intimidate, and bully people”. She said.
The Governor’s wife urged Nigerians to be mindful and responsible in their online interactions, discouraging toxic behaviour on social media platforms.
She noted that statistics indicate that 58 percent of women have experienced some form of online abuse, a figure she described as alarming and unacceptable.
Dr. Oyebanji reaffirmed her commitment to advocating for safer digital engagement and called on government agencies, media professionals, civil society organizations, tech companies, parents, traditional leaders, religious leaders, and young people to collaborate in order to curb cyber violence in all its forms.