…Calls for Government and Security Intervention to Ensure Her Safety
The pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organization, Igbimo Asoju Yoruba, has strongly condemned the recent wave of cyberbullying and threats directed at Lagos State University lecturer, Dr. Adeyinka Olarinmoye, popularly known as Iyalode Adeyinka Bello. The organization described the online attacks as dangerous, unethical, and a threat to free speech, cultural identity, and human dignity.
Dr. Olarinmoye became the target of widespread backlash following a comment she made on social media on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, under a post by Nigerian music star, David Adeleke (Davido). In the post, Davido expressed pride in his Igbo heritage, to which Dr Olarinmoye responded: “I would ensure my kids marry Yoruba.”
The statement, which was clearly an expression of personal cultural preference, was met with hostility from certain individuals on social media, particularly from non-Yoruba ethnic groups. What began as criticism quickly escalated into coordinated cyberbullying, with threats even being made against her life.
In response, Igbimo Asoju Yoruba, otherwise known as Yoruba Leaders Forum under the leadership of its Converner, Chief George Ogunjimi, The Bamofin Of Ojo, Lagos has issued a firm statement in support of Dr. Adeyinka Olarinmoye. The organization praised her courage in upholding her cultural values and condemned those using social media platforms to incite hatred and violence.
“We cannot allow a society where individuals, especially women and educators, are threatened for peacefully expressing cultural identity or values,” said Chief. George Ogunjimi. “Dr. Olarinmoye has done nothing wrong. Her statement was not inciting, discriminatory, or hateful. The bullying she has faced is unjustified and must be addressed seriously.”
He further called on the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and all relevant security agencies to act swiftly to ensure Dr. Olarinmoye’s safety and investigate those responsible for the threats.
“Cyberbullying is not a minor issue it can cause emotional distress, mental health challenges, and even pose physical risks. We urge the Nigeria Police Force and cybercrime units to trace and prosecute those responsible to send a strong message that online violence is unacceptable,” Chief Ogunjimi added.
The organization also used the opportunity to call for stronger digital ethics across Nigeria, emphasizing that freedom of speech must be exercised responsibly and that cultural expression should not be met with hostility