Nigerian Afrobeats star Ayra Starr has taken to social media to express her frustration over what she describes as ongoing bullying and targeted harassment from online users.
On Monday morning, the award-winning singer made a passionate post on X (formerly Twitter), calling out internet trolls who she says have made it their mission to constantly drag her and twist her words.
In the post, Ayra Starr, born Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, said there was little she could do to stop people who had already decided to misunderstand and attack her, no matter what she says or does.
“There’s nothing I can do nor say to people that intentionally want to bully and misunderstand me every time,” she wrote. “You’ve found a scapegoat abi? Focus on issues that actually matter and leave me tf alone.”
No clarity on the trigger
Although she did not mention the specific incident that led to the outburst, Ayra Starr’s frustration seemed to stem from repeated criticism she has received in recent months, especially about her fashion sense.
Known for her bold and unique style, Ayra has often made headlines for her outfits, which some critics label as too revealing. Despite her rising international profile and growing fan base, the singer continues to be a subject of harsh comments on Nigerian social media platforms.
Many of her fans, however, have defended her right to express herself through fashion, pointing out that male artists rarely face the same level of scrutiny.
A pattern of targeted criticism
Ayra Starr, who rose to fame with her breakout single “Bloody Samaritan,” has built a brand around confidence, youth, and self-expression. But according to her latest post, that image has made her an easy target for people looking to vent their frustrations online.
Observers say her status as one of the leading young female artists in the Afrobeats scene makes her particularly vulnerable to constant judgment, with some critics accusing her of being too westernised or inappropriate.
“It’s exhausting,” one fan wrote in response to her post. “You can’t wear what you like, talk how you want, or even exist in peace without someone trying to tear you down.”
Trolls and the Price of fame
The singer’s message also reflects a wider issue that many celebrities and public figures face in the digital age. Social media has become both a blessing and a curse, helping artists connect with fans while exposing them to 24/7 judgment, abuse, and negativity.
Mental health experts have warned that such online bullying, if left unchecked, can take a serious toll on an individual’s emotional well-being, even when that person appears confident or successful on the outside.
Ayra Starr’s statement joins a growing list of public outcries from Nigerian entertainers who have been pushed to their emotional limits by constant online pressure.
Fans offer support
Following her post, many fans and fellow entertainers flooded her comment section with words of support. They praised her courage for speaking out and urged her to ignore the hate and focus on her music.
“You’re doing amazing, Ayra. Don’t let the noise get to you,” one fan wrote. “You’re loved and appreciated.”
Another commented, “They don’t hate you. They hate themselves and what you represent, freedom and power.”
Ayra Starr staying focused on her music
Despite the negativity, Ayra Starr has continued to thrive musically. In 2024, she released her sophomore album, The Year I Turned 21, which received critical acclaim and topped streaming charts across Africa and beyond.
With multiple award nominations, international tour dates, and brand deals under her belt, the 21-year-old shows no signs of slowing down.
Still, her recent post is a clear reminder that fame comes with heavy personal costs, especially for young women trying to live freely in the spotlight.
Ayra Starr’s public stand against online bullying sheds light on the emotional toll of digital harassment and calls attention to the toxic side of social media culture. As the conversation grows louder around mental health and cyberbullying, fans and industry leaders alike may need to take a more active role in promoting respect and empathy online.
Read Also: I was a troll before becoming famous – Ayra Starr
