Senator Natasha Akpoti has called on the Nigerian government to consider reciprocal measures against South Africa following reports that Nigerian singer Ayra Starr and members of her team were denied visas to enter the country.The development comes amid growing tension on social media over South African singer Tyla’s planned concert in Lagos, with some Nigerians calling for a boycott of the event because of alleged mistreatment of Nigerians in South Africa.
Natasha Calls for Reciprocal Action
Reacting to the situation in an Instagram post on Thursday evening, Natasha urged the Federal Government and the Nigeria Immigration Service to review visa applications involving South African artistes and their teams.The senator said any response should be guided by the principle of reciprocity, a diplomatic approach under which countries may respond to the treatment of their citizens abroad with corresponding measures.She stressed that the issue should not be viewed as a personal attack against Tyla, but rather as a broader matter concerning Nigeria’s foreign policy and the treatment of its citizens.
Ayra Starr Visa Issue Triggers Concern
The call followed reports that Ayra Starr and her team were denied entry visas by South African authorities, allegedly resulting in the cancellation of a planned performance in the country.The reported development has generated criticism among some Nigerians, particularly at a time when there are also concerns over attacks and alleged discrimination against Nigerians and other foreign nationals in South Africa.Against this backdrop, Tyla’s scheduled performance in Lagos has become part of a wider public debate over whether Nigeria should continue welcoming South African entertainers while Nigerian artistes face difficulties entering South Africa.
‘Reciprocity Is a Recognized Instrument of Diplomacy’
Natasha argued that Nigeria should ensure its foreign policy protects the interests and dignity of Nigerians.She maintained that if the reported denial of visas to Ayra Starr and her team is confirmed, the Nigerian government should consider corresponding action until Nigerian citizens and entertainers receive fair treatment.According to her, the proposed measures are not aimed specifically at Tyla but are intended to reinforce the principle of mutual respect between Nigeria and South Africa.The senator also argued that diplomatic relationships should involve mutual consideration rather than one-sided treatment.
Tyla’s Lagos Concert Draws Debate
Tyla’s planned Lagos concert has already attracted significant discussion online, with some Nigerians calling for the event to be cancelled or boycotted amid the wider dispute.Supporters of the boycott argue that Nigeria should respond firmly to issues affecting Nigerian entertainers abroad. Others have questioned whether an individual South African artiste should be held responsible for decisions made by the country’s government or immigration authorities.The debate has therefore expanded beyond Tyla’s concert, touching on Nigeria-South Africa relations, treatment of entertainers and the use of cultural events in diplomatic disputes.
Conclusion
Natasha Akpoti has urged Nigeria to consider reciprocal diplomatic measures if reports of Ayra Starr’s visa denial by South African authorities are confirmed. Her comments come as Tyla’s planned Lagos concert faces growing scrutiny, placing the event at the centre of a wider debate about fairness, diplomacy and the treatment of Nigerians abroad.
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