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A Nigerian man has sparked debate online after urging Nigerians to boycott the upcoming concert of South African singer Tyla, citing ongoing xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa.
Speaking in a viral video, the man argued that Nigerians should not support the event by purchasing tickets, insisting that doing so would send the wrong message while concerns over xenophobic violence remain unresolved.
“No right-thinking Nigerian should buy a ticket in regards to the upcoming event of this South African girl coming to perform in Nigeria. Sincerely speaking, if you are normal.”
He explained that he had previously stayed silent on the issue but felt compelled to speak because of what he described as the South African government’s failure to adequately address the attacks.
Questions South African government’s response
The man said there were different opinions about whether Tyla should be held responsible, but insisted the focus should be on the response of the South African government.
“Despite the fact that there are different schools of thought here, let’s look at it. What is the body language of the South African government in its entirety?”
He questioned the actions of South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, asking how many people had been arrested over attacks that reportedly claimed the lives of Africans, particularly Nigerians.
“How many arrests has he made in regards to the people that have actually meted this havoc that has unalived some Africans, Nigerians to be specific? Not any tangible thing.”
He also criticised Tyla and other South African entertainers for allegedly remaining silent on the attacks.
“She, as a person, has she tweeted condemning this? She has never tweeted condemning this, and a lot of other artists.”
Calls on Nigerians to support local artistes
According to him, citizens should take a stand when they believe their government has not done enough to defend their interests.
“Even when you think the government should fight for it, if the government doesn’t fight for it, the citizens should fight for themselves.”
The man also questioned the purpose of Tyla’s visit, arguing that Nigeria already has globally recognised female artistes capable of delivering similar performances.
“If na nyash, we have a lot of artists that are A-list globally. We have the likes of Tiwa Savage and Tems.”
He concluded by saying that although international conventions would prevent authorities from stopping Tyla’s visit, he personally would have barred the singer from entering Nigeria.
“It’s just that conventionally, based on international conventions, you cannot stop her from coming. But if I were the president, I would ban her from coming.”
He added: “Allah will ban her from coming.”
Watch the video here…
“No right-thinking Nigerian should buy a ticket for her show.”
— Man calls for a boycott of the South African artiste’s performance in Nigeria. pic.twitter.com/lwOSRibES2
— Linda Ikeji Blog (@lindaikeji) July 30, 2026