Tyla's Lagos Concert Dropped from World Tour After Boycott Protests

Tyla's performance in Lagos as part of her 'A*POP World Tour' was removed from the official schedule following discussions related to boycott calls that arose amid conversations about xenophobia.

Boycott Calls

According to Nigerian content creator Solomon Buchi, the concert in Lagos is no longer listed in the official tour schedule. This was first reported by the news outlet 'African Folder,' which noted the disappearance of this date from the singer's list of performances.

Criticism of the Artist's Silence

This change occurred after Buchi criticized Tyla for her lack of public comment regarding xenophobic attacks that took place in South Africa, urging Nigerians not to support the show. In a video posted on Instagram, he stated: 'This show should not happen. This is the only time we should unite and stand up for something.'

Buchi's comments relate to the history of xenophobic violence in South Africa, where foreigners, including Nigerians and other African migrants, have been victims of attacks for years. Major outbreaks in 2008, 2015, and 2019 drew international attention, leading to the displacement of thousands of people and heightened diplomatic tensions between South Africa and other African nations.

Buchi expressed disappointment with Tyla's silence on these issues, arguing that her performance in Nigeria ignored the experiences of those affected. He emphasized: 'Not after the xenophobic attacks we saw in South Africa, and how immigrants were treated, especially Nigerian immigrants. Not a single word from Tyla.'

Buchi's Stance and Public Reaction

The content creator added that his call was not aimed at personal disagreements with the singer but served as a broader statement. He explained: 'It's not about Tyla. I don't have a conflict with her. It's about coming together as people and saying: 'No, we have a voice, and that voice matters.'

As of now, Tyla and her team have not made public statements regarding the alleged cancellation of the concert, and an official reason for the date's absence from the schedule has not been provided. This situation has sparked mixed reactions online: some users supported the boycott call, while others argued that artists cannot be held responsible for broader political and social issues.

iol.co.zaJuly 30, 12:15

Solomon Buchi calls for boycott of Tyla's concert in Nigeria over silence on xenophobia

Nigerian content creator Solomon Buchi has called on Nigerian citizens to boycott Tyla's upcoming performance in the country. He stated that it is time to unite and take a stand amid ongoing discussions about xenophobia and South Africa's treatment of African migrants.

Call to Action

In a video posted on his Instagram page, Buchi emphasized that this show should not take place. He believes this is a moment when people must come together and speak out against something.

Criticism of the Artist

He criticized Tyla for publicly remaining silent regarding the xenophobic attacks that have occurred in South Africa over many years. Buchi noted Tyla's lack of any comments concerning how immigrants were treated, especially Nigerian immigrants, during these attacks.

According to Buchi, the planned performance was disrespectful to Nigerians because it ignored the pain many people associate with these events.

History of Xenophobic Violence

Buchi's comments relate to the long history of xenophobic violence in South Africa, which has flared up at different times. Major waves of violence in 2008, 2015, and 2019 drew international attention when foreign nationals, including Nigerians, Zimbabweans, Somalis, and Ethiopians, were attacked, displaced, and in some cases, killed.

Recently, anti-migrant protests and attacks have reappeared in parts of the country. Reports indicate that self-defense groups are targeting foreigners, forcing many to leave their homes, which is causing diplomatic concern from Nigeria.

Alternative Suggestions and Support

This issue has reignited discussions about the safety of African migrants living in South Africa and the country's response to xenophobia. Buchi also mentioned Zimbabwe, stating that South African artists previously faced boycotts there following tensions related to xenophobia.

He clarified that his stance is not personally directed against Tyla, but rather concerns the necessity for people to unite and voice their opinion. Furthermore, he suggested that Nigerians who wish to see Tyla perform should travel to South Africa and obtain a visa for the country to watch the concert there, rather than in Nigeria.

Most social media comments reflected support for Buchi's views, with users calling the proposed boycott an opportunity for Nigerians to demonstrate a unified position.