Reported by Weng Patrick Atokor | Journalist at Weng Global
South African music sensation Tyla has removed Lagos from the schedule of her forthcoming APOP World Tour, a move that has sparked widespread debate across Africa’s entertainment industry following calls by some Nigerians to boycott the concert over renewed concerns about xenophobic attacks in South Africa.
The development comes just days after Tyla unveiled the dates for her highly anticipated global tour, which initially included a performance in Lagos scheduled for December 22, 2026. However, fans who revisited the official tour itinerary noticed that the Nigerian stop had disappeared from the updated schedule, while concerts in other cities remained unchanged.
Although the timing of the change has intensified speculation that it was influenced by mounting boycott campaigns on social media, neither Tyla nor her management has issued an official statement explaining why Lagos was removed. Likewise, concert promoters have not confirmed whether the event has been cancelled entirely or postponed to a later date.
Online backlash follows tour announcement
The controversy began shortly after Tyla announced her world tour, with Lagos listed as the only Nigerian destination.
The announcement quickly generated mixed reactions online, with many fans celebrating the prospect of welcoming one of Africa’s fastest-rising global stars. Others, however, argued that hosting a South African artiste at a time when Nigerians were expressing concern over reports of xenophobic attacks in South Africa sent the wrong message.
Several social media users called for a boycott of the Lagos concert, insisting that Nigerian audiences should stand in solidarity with compatriots allegedly affected by xenophobic violence.
The campaign gathered momentum after activist Martins Vincent Otse>, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, publicly criticized the planned performance and threatened to mobilize supporters against the show unless concerns surrounding attacks on Nigerians in South Africa were addressed.
His comments rapidly circulated across social media platforms, prompting heated discussions about diplomacy, entertainment, and the responsibilities of public figures during periods of tension between African nations.
Sowore rejects boycott campaign
The boycott campaign also drew reactions from politician and activist Omoyele Sowore, who took a different position.
Sowore argued that Tyla should not be held personally responsible for xenophobic attacks carried out by individuals in South Africa.
According to him, targeting an entertainer for political or criminal actions committed by others risks undermining cultural exchange and the longstanding relationship between Nigerian and South African creatives.
His intervention further divided public opinion, with some agreeing that music should remain separate from political disputes, while others maintained that symbolic actions such as concert boycotts could send a stronger message against xenophobia.
No official explanation from Tyla
As discussions intensified, fans noticed that Lagos had quietly disappeared from the updated APOP World Tour schedule.
Despite widespread speculation, Tyla’s team has not publicly linked the decision to the boycott campaign or the xenophobia debate.
Industry observers note that international tours are frequently adjusted for logistical, commercial, security, or operational reasons, making it difficult to conclude that the removal was solely connected to public pressure without an official explanation.
Until the singer or her management comments publicly, the exact reason behind the schedule change remains unknown.
Renewed focus on xenophobia
The controversy has once again drawn attention to the recurring issue of xenophobic attacks in South Africa, particularly incidents involving African migrants, including Nigerians.
Over the years, outbreaks of violence against foreign nationals have strained diplomatic relations between Nigeria and South Africa despite the two countries maintaining strong economic, political, and cultural ties.
Previous episodes of xenophobic violence have led to official condemnations, diplomatic engagements, evacuations of affected citizens, and public campaigns promoting African unity.
Many Nigerians on social media argued that renewed reports of attacks made it inappropriate to celebrate South African entertainment events without first addressing the broader humanitarian concerns.
Others countered that ordinary citizens and entertainers should not become targets for political disagreements beyond their control.
Entertainment industry reacts
The development has generated conversations throughout Africa’s entertainment community.
Some stakeholders expressed disappointment that Nigerian fans may lose the opportunity to experience Tyla’s live performance after months of anticipation.
Others said the controversy demonstrates how geopolitical issues increasingly influence international entertainment events, particularly in an era where public opinion on social media can rapidly shape commercial decisions.
Music promoters have also highlighted the financial implications of cancelling or postponing major concerts, noting that such events involve extensive planning, sponsorship agreements, venue bookings, and travel arrangements.
Tyla’s growing international profile
Tyla has become one of Africa’s most recognizable music exports after achieving remarkable global success with her blend of amapiano, pop, R&B, and Afrobeats influences.
Her breakout hit “Water” earned international acclaim, topping charts across several countries and introducing millions of listeners to South African music.
Since then, she has performed at major international festivals, received prestigious awards, and collaborated with globally recognized artists, cementing her place among Africa’s leading contemporary performers.
Her popularity in Nigeria has also grown steadily, with many fans embracing her music and celebrating collaborations between Nigerian and South African artistes.
Fans await clarification
For now, uncertainty surrounds the fate of the Lagos concert.
Neither ticketing partners nor event organizers have announced whether refunds will be issued, whether the concert will be rescheduled, or whether another Nigerian date could be added later.
Many fans continue to await an official statement from Tyla’s management to clarify the situation and address the growing speculation surrounding the schedule change.
Until then, the removal of Lagos from the tour itinerary is likely to remain a major talking point across Africa’s entertainment landscape.
The incident also underscores the delicate balance between entertainment, public sentiment, and international relations, demonstrating how artists increasingly find themselves navigating political and social issues beyond the stage.
As conversations continue online, observers hope the matter will encourage broader dialogue on protecting African migrants, strengthening regional cooperation, and preserving the cultural exchanges that have helped unite audiences across the continent.
Whether Lagos ultimately returns to Tyla’s tour schedule remains uncertain, but the episode has already highlighted the powerful influence of public opinion in shaping modern entertainment decisions.
Sources: Punch Newspapers, official APOP World Tour schedule, publicly available statements by Martins Vincent Otse (VeryDarkMan) and Omoyele Sowore.
