Xenophobia: Stay away from Nigeria — Jaywon urges Tyla

Nigerian singer Jaywon has joined growing calls for South African music star Tyla to suspend any plans to perform in Nigeria, citing her alleged silence over recurring xenophobic attacks on Nigerians and other foreign nationals in South Africa.

Jaywon made his position known in a social media post following the announcement that Tyla’s APOP World Tour will include a stop in Lagos on December 22, 2026. The tour announcement has generated mixed reactions, with some Nigerians calling for a boycott of the concert in protest against renewed attacks on foreigners in South Africa.

The “This Year” singer criticised Tyla for not publicly condemning the attacks, arguing that influential African entertainers have a responsibility to speak out whenever fellow Africans are subjected to violence or discrimination.

According to Jaywon, the prevailing mood among many Nigerians makes it inappropriate for the Grammy-winning singer to perform in the country at this time. He maintained that she should remain in South Africa rather than proceed with any scheduled appearance in Nigeria until concerns surrounding the attacks are addressed.

Jaywon’s remarks add to a growing online campaign against Tyla’s planned Lagos concert, with critics insisting that her perceived silence over xenophobic violence has disappointed many Nigerian fans.

The calls have, however, attracted opposing views. A Nigerian law firm, Damilare Adenola & Co. Lawpractice (DACO LP Africa), urged Nigerians not to hold the artiste responsible for the actions of the South African government or individuals involved in the attacks, arguing that responsibility should rest with the authorities charged with protecting foreign nationals. The firm maintained that, unless there is evidence linking Tyla to support for the violence, preventing her from performing would amount to collective punishment.

Tyla has not publicly responded to the calls or the criticism surrounding her scheduled performance in Lagos.