Tyla Drops Lagos Stop from APOP World Tour
South African Grammy‑winning singer Tyla has quietly removed Lagos from the itinerary of her APOP World Tour. The updated tour dates, posted on her official website, still list shows across Europe, North America and South Africa, but the Nigerian stop that was originally set for December 22 is no longer present.
Background of the APOP World Tour
When the tour was first announced, Lagos was highlighted as the sole Nigerian date, with the trek expected to finish in Cape Town on January 4 and Johannesburg on January 9. The inclusion of a Lagos show immediately sparked discussion on social media.
Public Reaction and Calls for a Boycott
Many Nigerians voiced concerns over alleged xenophobic attacks against Nigerians and other Africans living in South Africa. Some argued that South African artists should not be allowed to perform in Nigeria while such attacks continue, urging a boycott of Tyla’s concert.
Opponents of the boycott maintained that musicians should not be held responsible for broader sociopolitical issues in their home countries. Former Big Brother Naija housemate Pere Egbi went further, asking the Nigeria Immigration Service to deny visas to Tyla and her team, mirroring the treatment Nigerian artist Ayra Starr reportedly received when her South African show was cancelled over visa issues.
Visa Dispute Context
The controversy intensified when social activist Martins Otse, known as VeryDarkMan, threatened to mobilise his “Ratel Movement” to block the concert if it proceeded. He accused South African promoters and celebrities of staying silent on attacks against fellow Africans.
In contrast, 2027 presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore of the African Action Congress defended Tyla, stating that she should not be blamed for xenophobic acts committed by others and insisting that her Lagos show must go on.
Official Silence and Next Steps
As of this report, neither Tyla nor her management has issued an explanation for the removal of Lagos from the tour schedule. It remains unclear whether the change is a cancellation, postponement, or simple itinerary adjustment. The concert promoters have also not released any statement regarding the show’s status.
The situation continues to evolve, reflecting broader tensions between Nigeria and South Africa over immigration, artistic exchange, and perceptions of xenophobia.
