Tyla: ‘Respond with equivalent measures’ – Senator Natasha tells Nigerian government over Ayra Starr visa denial

Senator Urges Reciprocity in Visa Policies Following South African Artist’s Controversy

KOGI, Nigeria — Senator Natasha Akpoti, representing Kogi Central, has urged the Nigerian government and the Nigeria Immigration Service to enact measures similar to those taken by South Africa in response to a recent series of visa denials affecting Nigerian artists.

The senator’s remarks came Thursday evening amid a growing movement among Nigerians to boycott an upcoming concert by South African singer Tyla in Lagos. This sentiment follows reports of escalating attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa.

Concerns intensified when South African authorities denied entry visas to Nigerian artist Ayra Starr and her crew, leading to the cancellation of her performance in South Africa.

In light of these developments, Senator Akpoti emphasized the need for the Federal Government to apply the principle of reciprocity in international relations.

“Reciprocity is a recognized instrument of diplomacy,” she stated in an Instagram post. “I call on the Nigeria Immigration Service and the Federal Government to review the visa applications of South African artists and their teams in accordance with this principle.”

Akpoti further asserted that if the allegations regarding Ayra Starr’s visa denials are confirmed, Nigeria should respond with equivalent measures to protect its citizens’ rights and dignity.

“This is not a call against Tyla as an individual,” she clarified. “Rather, it is a call for Nigeria to uphold mutual respect within international relations. When our citizens encounter discriminatory treatment abroad, Nigeria must make it clear that such actions have corresponding consequences.”

The senator concluded by reiterating the importance of ensuring that Nigeria’s foreign policy maintains mutual respect between nations, advocating for fair treatment of Nigerians globally.

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