A growing number of Nigerian celebrities and social media personalities are calling for a boycott of South African singer Tyla’s planned Lagos concert, citing concerns over reported xenophobic attacks involving Nigerians in South Africa.The campaign, which has gained attention online under the slogan “South Africa thinks we’re fools,” followed the announcement of Tyla’s December concert in Lagos. Several Nigerians have questioned why the singer is scheduled to perform in Nigeria despite claims that she has not publicly condemned the reported attacks against Nigerians and other African immigrants in South Africa.
Why Nigerians Are Calling for a Boycott
The controversy comes amid heightened discussions about the treatment of Nigerians and other foreign nationals in South Africa.Some Nigerians online have also complained about what they describe as difficulties faced by Nigerian entertainers seeking to enter South Africa. Against that backdrop, Tyla’s upcoming Lagos performance has become a subject of debate, with critics arguing that Nigerian audiences should boycott the event.The campaign has attracted reactions from entertainment personalities, broadcasters and digital creators, although opinions about the proposed boycott remain divided.
Do2dtun Criticises Nigerians Supporting the Concert
Popular Nigerian broadcaster Do2dtun was among those who spoke strongly against attending the concert.In a post on X, he referenced past tensions involving Nigerian singer Burna Boy and South Africa, arguing that Nigerians should remember how the musician was treated over his position on xenophobia.Do2dtun questioned why Nigerians would support an artiste from South Africa while, in his view, Nigerian entertainers have faced hostility in the country.He therefore urged Nigerians who disagree with the boycott campaign to reconsider their position.
Pere Egbi Calls on Immigration Authorities to Act
Former Big Brother Naija housemate Pere Egbi also joined the conversation.Pere called on the Nigeria Immigration Service to deny Tyla and members of her team entry into Nigeria, arguing that Nigeria should respond firmly to what he described as unfair treatment of Nigerians in South Africa.His comments further intensified the online debate over whether Tyla should be allowed to proceed with her planned Lagos performance.
Solomon Buchi Says the Concert Should Not Hold
Digital creator Solomon Buchi also criticised the planned event.In a video shared on Instagram, Buchi argued that Tyla should have publicly addressed the reported xenophobic incidents before announcing a Nigerian concert.He described her silence on the issue as disappointing and said Nigerians should unite behind the proposed boycott.
Other Creators Join the Campaign
Content creator Sea King also expressed support for calls to boycott the concert. He criticised the event organisers and argued that they should reconsider staging the show given the current public sentiment.Izzy Ogbeide, meanwhile, directed part of her criticism at the Nigerian government. She questioned why the planned concert was being allowed to proceed while Nigerians continue to express concerns about treatment of their compatriots in South Africa.Another digital creator, D English Alhaji, also said Tyla should not be welcomed for a Nigerian performance until the concerns surrounding the reported attacks are addressed.
Call for Violence Sparks Concern
One of the more controversial reactions came from digital creator Isa Bako, who went beyond calls for a boycott and encouraged people to physically confront concertgoers.Such a call amounts to an appeal for violence and should not be treated as a legitimate form of protest. Peaceful protest, lawful boycotts and public criticism provide legitimate avenues for Nigerians who want to express opposition to the concert.
Tyla’s Lagos Show Becomes a Wider Debate
The controversy surrounding Tyla’s planned Lagos concert has now developed into a broader conversation about solidarity, entertainment and the relationship between Nigeria and South Africa.For supporters of the boycott, the issue is about demanding accountability and showing solidarity with Nigerians affected by xenophobia. For others, the dispute raises questions about whether an individual musician should be held responsible for actions or policies carried out by people and institutions in her home country.As the December concert approaches, attention is likely to remain focused on whether Tyla or her representatives will respond to the criticism and whether the campaign will have any impact on the event.
Conclusion
The backlash against Tyla’s planned Lagos concert reflects the anger among some Nigerians over reported xenophobic attacks and perceived unequal treatment of Nigerian entertainers in South Africa. While celebrities and online personalities continue to push for a boycott, the controversy also highlights the need for peaceful and lawful responses to international and social tensions.
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