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

The senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti, has called on the Nigerian government and the Nigeria Immigration Service to reciprocate South Africa’s actions in line with foreign policy principles.

She made the call on Thursday evening while reacting to a campaign by Nigerians against South African singer Tyla’s concert in Lagos amid attacks on Nigerians in South Africa.

It was also reported that the South African government recently denied singer Ayra Starr and her crew visas, leading to the cancellation of her show in the country.

However, speaking amid the ongoing calls by Nigerians to boycott South African singer Tyla’s concert in Nigeria, Senator Natasha urged the Federal Government, FG, to “respond with equivalent measures,” as provided for under foreign policy.

Lamenting what she described as disrespect towards Nigerians, Natasha, in an Instagram post, noted that “reciprocity is a recognized instrument of diplomacy.”

“I call on the Nigeria Immigration Service and the Federal Government of Nigeria to review the visa applications of South African artistes and their entourages in accordance with the principle of reciprocity in foreign policy.

“If it is confirmed that our Nigerian artiste, Ayra Starr, and her team were denied entry visas to South Africa, leading to the cancellation of their engagements, then Nigeria should respond with equivalent measures until Nigerian citizens and artistes are accorded fair and respectful treatment.

“This is not a call against Tyla as an individual. Rather, it is a call for Nigeria to uphold the principle of mutual respect that underpins international relations. Reciprocity is a recognized instrument of diplomacy. When our citizens face discriminatory or unjust treatment abroad, Nigeria must demonstrate that such actions carry corresponding consequences.

“Our foreign policy should protect the dignity of Nigerians everywhere and ensure that respect between nations is mutual, not one-sided,” she stated.