Lydia Wanjiru says TikTok has become hub of cyberbullying
By Paulette Mboga, October 23, 2025TikTok, known to many as the “clock app”, has become a breeding ground for cyberbullying and online cruelty, according to social media personality Lydia Wanjiru.
In a recent post, on Thursday, October 23, 2025, Wanjiru expressed concern over the growing trend of users spreading hate and ridicule in the name of engagement and likes.
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She said people on the app seem to have lost their sense of empathy and decency. “Huko clock app is like everyone has run mad, and all they care for is to get likes, whether from a video or a comment. People leave the meanest comments, and you wonder, if you came face to face with that person, would you tell them the same?” she said.
Wanjiru pointed out that what was once meant to be a space for creativity and entertainment has turned toxic. She described the platform as a place where users compete for attention by mocking others, often crossing the line between humour and cruelty.
Calls for online discipline
According to Wanjiru, a worrying culture of “unity through bullying” has emerged, especially among Kenyan users. “And then there’s this pandemic of ‘showing’ unity as Kenyans. Unakuta a non-Kenyan ameshambuliwa kwa comment section hadi unamhuria. Heh, we need therapy if not whipping as a country. Na no wonder viongozi ni maboflo pia!” she said.
She also highlighted the disturbing trend of people attacking children on social media. “Worse is shaming a child. Unakuta Kenyans literally wanatusi sura ya mtoto as if they don’t know that a child’s look, skin colour… everything changes as they grow. Ama if ako na a ka deformity kidogo, that’s what they focus on. Yani, whole adults!” she lamented.
Wanjiru further condemned the ridicule directed at people with medical conditions, calling it inhumane.
“And the most recent one, criticising a person with a medical record. Jesus Christ, where do we draw the line between humanity, trends and ‘chai’?” she asked.
She ended her remarks by urging Kenyans to reflect on their online behaviour. “Yoooh, hamna maisha? Who is following you while you’re busy following maisha ya creators? Especially the so negative sides!” Wanjiru said, emphasising the need for responsible use of social media platforms.