Popular Afrobeats singer Asake has found himself at the center of a major social media storm following the announcement of ticket prices for his upcoming homecoming concert in Lagos.
Nigerians React to Exorbitant Ticket Fee
The controversy erupted when it was revealed that tickets for Asake's highly anticipated Lagos performance would cost N300,000 for standard admission. This staggering price point immediately triggered widespread backlash across Nigerian social media platforms, with many citizens expressing disbelief at the cost.
Leading the criticism was prominent social media commentator Naijashimadun, who voiced his displeasure in a viral video that has been trending across various platforms. Speaking passionately in Yoruba, the commentator directly addressed the former YBNL star, questioning the rationale behind such expensive pricing.
Michael Jackson Comparison Goes Viral
In his now-viral reaction, Naijashimadun made a striking comparison that has captured public attention. He claimed that tickets to see the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson, during his lifetime never reached N10,000 - a fraction of what Asake's organizers are charging Nigerian fans.
The social media personality didn't hold back in his assessment, stating: "How much did we use to see Michael Jackson when he was alive? It's not up to 10,000. Even seeing Tinubu is not that expensive. Nigerians can't pay N300,000 to come see Ahmed (Asake). We own Afrobeats; you can't sell it at an expensive price to us. We own Ahmed. They can't sell him to us for N300,000."
Naijashimadun went further to warn Asake that he should call his organizers to order, emphasizing that the artist would ultimately bear the blame from disappointed Nigerians if the pricing structure remains unchanged.
Social Media Erupts in Criticism
The online reaction to both the ticket prices and Naijashimadun's video has been overwhelmingly critical of the pricing strategy. Many Nigerian netizens have joined the conversation, expressing similar sentiments about the affordability of the concert for average fans.
One social media user, IfunanyaDelilah, questioned the value proposition: "300k for standing ticket? Shey he go bring God come the concert?" This sentiment was echoed by numerous others who found the pricing difficult to justify.
Another commenter, MrSimpleNClassy, highlighted the pricing disparity: "I don't know why everyone, including Nigerians, likes exploring Nigerians. His ticket in South Africa is not even up to N100K, and even in the USA, how many people will pay more than $200?"
The comparison to international pricing has become a recurring theme in the discussion, with many questioning why Nigerian fans are being charged significantly more than international audiences.
As the controversy continues to generate heated discussions online, all eyes remain on Asake and his management team to see if any adjustments will be made to the controversial pricing structure for what was supposed to be a celebratory homecoming event.
