Media personality Daddy Freeze has weighed in on the backlash surrounding South African singer Tyla’s planned visit to Nigeria, questioning calls for her boycott over South Africa’s history of xenophobic attacks against Nigerians.
The controversy erupted after Tyla announced her first-ever world tour, with Lagos listed as one of the destinations for her performance.
Reacting to the criticism, Daddy Freeze argued that many Nigerians condemning the singer continue to use South African-owned products and services.
“I understand that it is valid to feel that Tyla is coming to Nigeria after the whole xenophobia thing. But the phone wey you use take dey type, no be MTN SIM dey inside? Did you not watch DSTV last night? You’re watching this on DSTV.
“You see, there’s a bit of hypocrisy at the end of the day. Why are we holding Tyla accountable? Do you remember that there are so many Nigerians who have refused to go back home? They are still in South Africa,” he said.
Daddy Freeze maintained that although the pain caused by Xenophobic attacks should not be overlooked, holding Tyla solely responsible would neither address the underlying issues nor improve relations between Nigeria and South Africa.
He further stated that those pushing for a boycott should also be prepared to avoid other South African products if they genuinely want to make a statement.
“Let’s try to bring peace. I understand the anger of Nigerians. I’m on the fence that yes, boycott xenophobia, but must you boycott Tyla while you are still using other South African products?” he added.
His comments have since generated mixed reactions on social media, with users divided over whether Tyla should be blamed for the actions of some South Africans.