Former Big Brother Naija star and Nollywood actor, Pere Egbi, has sparked widespread conversations after disclosing that a close friend died by suicide following relentless online bullying. The reality TV alum broke the news on Monday, August 25, 2025, through his verified X handle, drawing shockwaves across Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
“I lost a friend today due to online bullying. Committed suicide. Smh. RIP champ. It is well,” Pere wrote in a short but gut-wrenching post. Within hours, the message trended across X and Instagram, with thousands of fans, colleagues, and mental health advocates demanding urgent action against toxic digital culture.
Cyberbullying has become a growing public health concern in Nigeria. According to a 2024 report by Paradigm Initiative, over 40% of Nigerian youths say they have experienced some form of online harassment, with cases of depression and suicidal ideation linked to digital abuse on the rise. Pere’s revelation has brought that crisis into sharp focus, particularly within the celebrity space where trolling often goes unchecked.
The actor, who splits his time between Nigeria and the United States, did not disclose whether his late friend was based in Africa or abroad. However, the tragedy adds to a worrying global trend: the World Health Organization reports that suicide is the fourth leading cause of death among young people aged 15–29 worldwide, with cyberbullying increasingly cited as a trigger.
Pere’s grief also comes on the heels of controversy. Just weeks ago, he drew backlash for stating that South Africa’s film industry outpaces Nollywood in storytelling, professionalism, and work ethic. While some criticized his bluntness, others defended his call for reform. His latest statement, however, has shifted the spotlight away from industry rivalry to the urgent need for compassion in digital spaces.
Beyond reality TV, Pere has built a strong film résumé, featuring in both Nollywood and international titles such as Gem of the Rain Forest, Pound of Flesh, and Blood Vessel. Colleagues describe him as outspoken yet empathetic — qualities reflected in his decision to go public about his friend’s tragic end.
As tributes continue to pour in, mental health experts are urging influencers, tech platforms, and government regulators to create safer online environments. For Pere Egbi, the loss of his friend is now a rallying cry: a painful reminder that every careless comment, every trolling post, and every online attack can leave scars deep enough to end a life.
