Nigerian writer and social commentator Solomon Buchi has ignited a debate by publicly calling for a boycott of South African singer Tyla's upcoming concert in Lagos, scheduled for December 2026. In a video posted to his Instagram page on July 29, 2026, Buchi argued that the event should not proceed due to Tyla's complete silence during recent xenophobic attacks on Nigerian and other African immigrants in South Africa.
Buchi's Reasons for the Boycott Call
According to Buchi, the issue is not personal but about solidarity and respect. He challenged the assumption that Nigerians would embrace a South African artist without addressing the violence their compatriots faced abroad. "Tyla is having a show in December in Nigeria, and that show must not happen. This is the one time Nigerians have to come together and stand for something, not after the xenophobic attacks that we saw in South Africa and how immigrants — and especially Nigerian immigrants — were treated. Not one word from Tyla. Not even performative activism from her," he said.
Comparison with Zimbabwe and Call for Collective Action
Buchi drew a comparison with Zimbabwe, noting that Zimbabweans had previously boycotted South African artists in a show of collective resistance. He argued that Nigerians had the same opportunity to make a meaningful statement. "Zimbabweans did it. They boycotted South African artists in Zimbabwe. It's not about Tyla. I have no beef with her. But it's about coming together as a people and saying, no, we have a voice, and that voice matters," he added.
Economic Argument and Alternative Actions
The commentator also framed the concert as an economic concern, questioning why a South African artist should be platformed in Nigeria when local musicians could fill that space. "Why is she coming to Nigeria to take away our jobs? We have our own musicians. They can do the shows in our country. We don't want South African musicians or celebrities who are not speaking up against xenophobia to come to our country to be platformed," he stated. For those who still wished to attend, Buchi suggested traveling to South Africa instead. He also called on attendees to bring placards and stage a visible protest against xenophobia: "Even if it happens, please make sure you go with your placards. Make sure you chorus 'no' to xenophobia. Make sure you stage something that will be monumental for people to see that we do not condone xenophobia."
Buchi's Other Comments on Peller and Jarvis
In a separate development, Buchi also expressed concerns about the upcoming marriage of Nigerian TikTok stars Peller and Jarvis, scheduled for August 1, 2026. He cautioned that unresolved resentment, highlighted by a past livestream where Jarvis told Peller to take back a car gift, could undermine their union. Buchi urged the couple to resolve lingering issues or even postpone the wedding, stressing that marriage requires maturity, openness to advice, and more than social media appearances.
