BBNaija star and actor Pere Egbi has sparked fresh debate after calling on the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) to deny South African singer Tyla and her team entry into Nigeria. His reaction comes as anger continues to grow over the recent xenophobic attacks and reported killings of Nigerians living in South Africa. Tyla is expected to perform at a concert in Lagos this December, but many Nigerians now want the event cancelled.
Taking to X, Pere appealed to the NIS to reject visa applications from Tyla and her management team. According to him, such a move would send a strong message about how Nigerians feel over the repeated attacks on their citizens in South Africa. His post has added to the growing online campaign calling for a boycott of the Grammy-winning singer’s Lagos concert. Many social media users believe hosting a South African artist at this time would be insensitive.
Meanwhile, activist Omoyele Sowore disagreed with the boycott campaign. He argued that the real problem is the Nigerian government’s failure to protect its citizens and respond strongly to the attacks. Sowore blamed the recurring xenophobic violence on what he described as the systemic governance failures of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. However, Pere rejected that view and insisted that immediate action is necessary.
According to Pere, practical steps like visa denials and public boycotts are the best way to respond to the ongoing hostility against Nigerians in South Africa. His comments have continued to divide opinions online. While some Nigerians support his position, others believe artists should not be held responsible for political and social issues between both countries.
As discussions continue, many are watching to see whether Tyla’s December concert in Lagos will go ahead as planned.
