Nigerian comedian Funny Bone has advised people to resist the urge to publicly defend themselves whenever they are called out or dragged online, warning that social media rarely delivers a clear winner.
In a candid message, the comedian said people going through online controversies should surround themselves with friends who can discourage them from responding impulsively, particularly through videos.
“If you ever have a problem with anybody online, may God give you friends who will advise you not to ever come online to explain yourself. Because you know why? You see the court of social media. Nobody wins,” he said.
Funny Bone acknowledged that people who feel strongly about defending themselves could issue a written statement, but warned against putting their emotions on camera for strangers to dissect.
He explained that even people who initially support someone online could eventually turn their response into a meme or use it against them.
“The same people who support you online will use your video as a meme. They will mock you with the same video that they supported,” he said.
The comedian instead encouraged people caught in online controversies to prioritise their mental wellbeing, seek trusted counsel and allow themselves time to heal.
“Find peace, get closure, talk to somebody, get therapy, heal, be fine. You don’t always have to tell your side of the story,” he advised.
He also noted that social media controversies are often short lived, as new stories quickly replace old ones.
“After yours, something else will happen, and they will move to the next story. Online, nothing stays forever,” he added.
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