Senator Natasha Akpoti, representing Kogi Central, has urged the Federal Government and the Nigeria Immigration Service to adopt reciprocal measures against South African performers. This statement follows reports that singer Ayra Starr and her team were refused entry visas to South Africa, resulting in the cancellation of her scheduled performance.
As public outcry grows in Nigeria regarding an upcoming Lagos concert for South African artist Tyla, the senator emphasized that her stance is rooted in standard diplomatic practice. She argued that international relations rely on mutual respect and that Nigeria must stand up for its citizens when they face unfair treatment abroad.
In a social media statement, Akpoti clarified that her position is not a personal attack on Tyla. Instead, she described it as a necessary defense of national dignity. She maintained that Nigeria should hold South African artists to the same visa standards experienced by Nigerian performers, asserting that diplomatic reciprocity is an essential tool to ensure fairness in cross-border relations.
