Nigerians on social media have expressed mixed reactions over calls to boycott South African singer Tyla’s scheduled concert in Lagos, with many linking the debate to renewed concerns over alleged xenophobic attacks against Nigerians living in South Africa.
The controversy followed the announcement of Tyla’s APOP World Tour, which includes a performance in Lagos on December 22, 2026, before concluding with concerts in Cape Town on January 4 and Johannesburg on January 9, 2027.
The Grammy-winning singer unveiled the tour schedule on Monday, confirming performances across Europe, North America, Nigeria and South Africa.
Following the announcement, several users on X argued that the concert should not take place while reports of alleged attacks and killings involving Nigerians in South Africa continue to generate public concern.
One user, @Miz_Fey, wrote, “Any Nigerian who attends Tyla’s concert in Lagos is just as useless as the government btw.”
Another user, @FtoniaUc, argued that South African entertainers should not be staging concerts in Nigeria amid the ongoing tensions.
“I don’t care what y’all say, with what went down and what is going down in South Africa against Nigerians, no South African artists should be hosting a concert or show in Nigeria. It’s the audacity for me!!”
The user also criticised prospective attendees and organisers of the event, saying they should be ashamed of supporting the concert under the current circumstances.
Similarly, @BighomieRay urged Nigerians to reject the event, alleging that South African authorities had failed to address reported attacks on Nigerians.
Another user, @MetOrjiChukwudi, called for what he described as a peaceful boycott, saying it would serve as a symbolic stand against xenophobia and Afrophobia.
“I call on Nigerians to peacefully boycott Tyla’s performance as a symbolic stand for justice, accountability, and the protection of all Africans. As long as xenophobia and Afrophobia continue to threaten the lives of Africans, including Nigerians, in South Africa, I believe this is not the right time to support South African entertainment in Nigeria.”
Some critics also questioned why Tyla had not publicly commented on the reported incidents involving Nigerians in South Africa.
The renewed debate follows widespread reactions to reports of the alleged death of a Nigerian, Chika Ibe, in South Africa, an incident that has continued to spark conversations online. Authorities have continued investigations into the case, while allegations surrounding xenophobic attacks remain the subject of public debate.
However, many social media users opposed the boycott campaign, arguing that entertainers should not be held responsible for political or social issues.
One user, @Emmanuel1135482, said Nigerians’ support for Tyla should not be interpreted as support for xenophobia.
“Nigerians get love still get hate at the same time. Na the love for Tyla no be for South Africans.”
Another user, @cea9275, described the boycott campaign as misguided, arguing that political disputes should not prevent musicians from performing in other countries.
Meanwhile, @DoyeenOfLagos questioned why blame was being directed at the government rather than concert organisers and members of the public who choose to attend the event.
The discussion continues to divide opinions online, reflecting broader concerns over Nigeria-South Africa relations, xenophobia and whether entertainment events should be affected by diplomatic and social tensions.
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