South African Grammy-winning singer Tyla has become the centre of an online debate after announcing a Lagos concert as part of her APOP World Tour, with Nigerians sharply divided over calls to boycott the event amid renewed outrage over alleged xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa. The Lagos concert is scheduled for December 22, before the tour concludes with performances in Cape Town and Johannesburg in January.
The controversy erupted on social media shortly after the tour dates were unveiled. Supporters of the boycott argued that hosting a South African artiste while reports of attacks on Nigerians in South Africa persist would send the wrong message. Several users urged Nigerians to reject the concert as a symbolic protest against xenophobia and to show solidarity with Nigerians living in South Africa.
Some critics also questioned Tyla’s silence on the issue, saying the singer has not publicly condemned alleged xenophobic violence. Others linked the boycott campaign to the reported death of Nigerian national Chika Ibe in Cape Town, arguing that South African entertainers should not expect business as usual until stronger action is taken against attacks on foreign nationals.
However, many Nigerians opposed the boycott campaign, insisting that music should not be mixed with political disputes. They argued that Tyla should not be held personally responsible for the actions of individuals or the South African government, adding that cultural exchange between African countries should continue despite diplomatic tensions. Some also pointed out that Nigerian artistes regularly perform in South Africa and collaborate with South African musicians.
The online debate comes amid heightened tensions following renewed reports of alleged xenophobic attacks on Nigerians and other African migrants in South Africa. While opinions remain divided, Tyla’s upcoming Lagos concert has evolved beyond a music event into a wider conversation about solidarity, accountability and the future of cultural ties between two of Africa’s biggest entertainment industries.
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