The Senator representing Kogi Central, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan
The lawmaker representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has urged the Federal Government and the Nigeria Immigration Service to review visa applications by South African artistes and their entourages in line with the principle of reciprocity, amid the controversy surrounding South African singer Tyla’s cancelled Lagos concert and allegations of unfair treatment of Nigerian artistes.
The senator made the call in a statement issued on Friday following alleged reports that Nigerian music star Ayra Starr and members of her team were previously denied entry visas to South Africa, forcing the cancellation of their engagements.
Her intervention comes days after Tyla removed Lagos from the schedule of her APOP World Tour following widespread boycott calls sparked by renewed concerns over xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa.
Akpoti-Uduaghan said Nigeria should not remain passive when its citizens are subjected to unfair treatment abroad, insisting that the country’s foreign policy should reflect mutual respect.
