Nigerian music sensation Ayra Starr has become the latest victim of severe cyberbullying that has crossed into digital violence. The popular singer recently found herself targeted by a coordinated online attack that included the creation and distribution of a fake nude image using her likeness.
The Disturbing Details of the Attack
According to social media user @EuniceOkePurple, another X user identified as @o_useyi allegedly took Ayra Starr's photo and digitally removed her clothing to create a fabricated nude image. The manipulated content was then circulated across social media platforms, representing what digital rights advocates are calling image-based abuse rather than simple trolling.
The incident has sparked outrage among fans and digital rights activists who emphasize that this constitutes digital violence rather than harmless online banter. As one post addressing the situation stated: "This is not banter … It is digital violence. It is harassment. It is a violation."
This isn't the first time Ayra Starr has faced online harassment. In June 2025, the artist expressed her frustration on X, writing: "There's nothing I can do nor say to people that intentionally want to bully … You've found a scapegoat abi? … Focus on issues that actually matter and leave me TF alone."
Beyond the Fake Image: A Pattern of Harassment
The digital violence against Ayra Starr extends beyond the fake nude image. The singer has been subjected to baseless rumors about body odor, with trolls manipulating innocent social media interactions as supposed evidence. One particular video showing Tems and Ayra Starr miming to a song was selectively edited to suggest Tems was reacting to bad breath when she briefly held her nose.
Media reports indicate this appears to be a coordinated campaign against the artist. According to Inside Port Harcourt Media, the rumors about odor have been amplified without credible evidence, suggesting a deliberate attempt to damage her mental health and public reputation.
Fans and advocates are now calling on Mavin Records, Ayra Starr's record label, to take stronger action beyond public relations statements. They argue that entertainment companies have a responsibility to protect their artists' dignity and safety, particularly when facing gendered digital violence.
A Wider Problem for Nigerian Women in Spotlight
Ayra Starr's experience reflects a broader pattern of online gender-based violence targeting Nigerian women in the public eye. Other prominent figures have faced similar digital attacks, including Nollywood actress Toyin Abraham, who filed a petition against cyberbullies in 2024, and content creator Hauwa Lawal, who experienced body-shaming and demeaning language.
A report by TheCable confirms that gendered disinformation campaigns frequently target prominent Nigerian women, subjecting them to slurs, smear campaigns, and character assassination. This systemic problem highlights the particular vulnerabilities women face in Nigeria's digital public sphere.
The circulation of fake nude images represents a form of image-based abuse that violates privacy and dignity. Even when the images are artificially generated, the intent remains the same: to shame, humiliate, and control the victim.
As digital manipulation technology becomes more accessible, experts worry that such violations will increase unless stronger accountability measures are implemented. The incident involving Ayra Starr serves as a stark reminder that cyberbullying can have real psychological consequences and that the line between online harassment and digital violence has clearly been crossed.
