Social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VDM, has issued a strong warning against the planned Lagos concert of South African singer Tyla. In a video posted on his social media platforms, VDM declared that the show must not proceed under current circumstances, linking his opposition to unresolved concerns over xenophobia against Nigerians in South Africa and the case of Nigerian-born beauty queen Chidimma Adetshina.
VDM's Firm Stance: "We Will Bring It Down"
Speaking directly to event promoters, VDM left no room for ambiguity. "There will be no Tyla show in Nigeria, it is not happening," he said. He further threatened that members of the Ratel Movement, a group he is associated with, would mobilise to disrupt the concert if organisers refuse to reconsider. "If you continue with the show, we will come there and we will bring it down. We don’t care what will happen. We don’t want Tyla," he stated.
VDM argued that many Nigerians still remember the xenophobic attacks that occurred in South Africa and questioned why a South African artiste should benefit from Nigerian support while such concerns persist. He also referenced Chidimma Adetshina, claiming her reported legal challenges in South Africa make the timing of the proposed concert particularly insensitive.
Comparison to Ayra Starr and Social Media Backlash
VDM further stirred conversation by comparing Tyla to Nigerian singer Ayra Starr, arguing that Nigeria already has talented female artistes capable of commanding major stages. His comments have ignited a fierce debate online, with many Nigerians supporting the boycott call.
Social media users reacted strongly. @Pauline1318957 stated: "Who be the organisers sef wey feel say e go dey ok to book a south African to perform for inside Nigeria sef, after wetin dem dey do all of us for their country, dem even still pursue ayra star sef, chidinma still dey there, dem dey threaten her everyday ...make God punish tyla." @D_kingsevidence countered: "Very dark manipulator shut up your useless mouth. Everything you said about south Africans killing Nigerians is also what Nigerians in every part of the country do to the same Nigerians. You can check @naijaconfra posts if you doubt me. This is also a warning to you too."
Background: VDM's Previous Activism
This is not VDM's first high-profile confrontation. Legit.ng previously reported that VDM shared a video of his encounter with alleged armed thugs in Ibadan, Oyo State, on June 16, 2026. In that incident, he claimed the thugs were armed with bottles and stones, and he confronted them alongside protesters. The activist has gained a reputation for taking direct action on issues he feels strongly about.
