Published: July 28, 2026 | 10:49 AM
Nigerians have expressed sharply divided opinions on social media over calls to boycott South African music star Tyla’s scheduled concert in Lagos, with many linking the event to renewed concerns over alleged xenophobic attacks against Nigerians living in South Africa.
The controversy erupted after Tyla announced her APOP World Tour, which includes a performance in Lagos on December 22, before concluding with concerts in Cape Town on January 4 and Johannesburg on January 9.
The Grammy-winning singer unveiled the tour schedule on Monday, with performances planned across Europe, North America, Nigeria, and South Africa.
Social Media Backlash
Following the announcement, several users on X (formerly Twitter) argued that the concert should not take place while Nigerians continue to face alleged attacks in South Africa.
X user @Miz_Fey wrote:
“Any Nigerian who attends Tyla’s concert in Lagos is just as useless as the government btw.”
Another user, @FtoniaUc, stated:
“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 added:
“Any Nigerian buying that ticket and even the organiser should be ashamed.”
Similarly, @BighomieRay urged Nigerians to reject the concert, saying:
“If this concert holds successfully in Nigeria, then Nigerians are a bunch of idiots. Go and see what SA police are doing to Nigerians. They recently killed a Nigerian. None of them have spoken against it.”
Another user, @MetOrjiChukwudi, called for a peaceful boycott.
“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.”
Echoing similar sentiments, @Phatbabeluuu posted:
“Tyla having a show in Lagos after the whole xenophobia situation from her country shows one thing — Nigerians don’t stand for anything.”
Others also criticised Tyla for not publicly addressing allegations of xenophobic attacks against Nigerians.
“I’ve never seen Tyla speak up against xenophobia. But sure, let’s do a tour stop in Lagos,” wrote @Momobtw__.
Referencing a widely circulated video alleging the death of a Nigerian in police custody in South Africa, @callmehonneybee said:
“Mind you, this is what their police officers are doing to our brothers. Literally killing them like flies in their own home.”
Others Oppose Boycott
However, not all Nigerians supported the boycott campaign.
User @Emmanuel1135482 argued that supporting Tyla should not be equated with supporting xenophobia.
“Nigerians get love still get hate at the same time. Na the love for Tyla no be for South Africans.”
Another X user, @cea9275, dismissed the boycott calls, saying:
“You’re fighting an illogical battle. Political issues should never stop a musician from performing in the said country. And if you’re really passionate about this issue, why don’t you condemn Nigerian artists featuring South African artistes?”
Meanwhile, @DoyeenOfLagos questioned why blame was being directed solely at the government instead of concert organisers and attendees.
“We are quick to blame government. Make government come wash our bumbum after pooing? No be some people organise the event? No be some go attend the event? Na government forced them to? That’s why politicians are treating us like this.”
Growing Tensions
The debate comes amid renewed concerns over the treatment of Nigerians in South Africa following reports of alleged xenophobic attacks and the reported death of Nigerian national Chika Ibe in Cape Town. The incident has continued to generate widespread reactions across social media, fueling calls for solidarity and renewed discussions about the relationship between both countries.
