Daddy Freeze Sparks Debate Defending Tyla’s Nigeria Show

Daddy Freeze defends Tyla amid Nigeria concert boycott calls, questioning critics over their continued use of South African-owned services

Nigerian media personality Daddy Freeze has defended South African singer Tyla amid calls for a boycott of her planned concert in Nigeria, arguing that critics of the event should also consider their continued patronage of South African-owned businesses.

Also read: Tyla’s Lagos concert divides Nigerians as boycott campaign gains attention

Daddy Freeze made the comments while reacting to the backlash surrounding Tyla’s scheduled performance, which has been criticised by some Nigerians following renewed concerns over xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa.

In a social media statement, Daddy Freeze questioned what he described as a contradiction among some Nigerians who oppose Tyla’s appearance while still using services linked to South African companies.

“Nigerians, I understand that many feel it’s wrong for Tyla to come to Nigeria while xenophobic attacks are happening in South Africa. But let me ask you this: Isn’t the SIM card in the phone you’re using to criticise Tyla an MTN SIM? Didn’t you watch DStv last night? We’re being hypocritical. That’s the truth,” he said.

The remarks have generated a strong reaction online, with Nigerians expressing different views over whether entertainment events should be treated in the same way as business relationships.

Supporters of Daddy Freeze’s position argued that cultural exchanges and commercial partnerships should not be affected by the actions of individuals or groups, while critics maintained that concerns about the safety and treatment of Nigerians abroad should not be dismissed.

Some social media users questioned the comparison between multinational businesses operating in Nigeria and an individual artist representing a country facing criticism over xenophobic incidents.

One commenter, El Tad, wrote that commercial links should not prevent Nigerians from expressing concerns about attacks against their citizens abroad.

Others argued that Nigerian artists would likely face similar challenges if they attempted to perform in South Africa during periods of tension.

The controversy comes amid ongoing discussions about the relationship between Nigeria and South Africa, particularly regarding issues of migration, economic ties, entertainment and cultural exchange.

Tyla, who has gained international recognition with her global hit songs, has not publicly responded to the boycott calls or Daddy Freeze’s comments.

Also read: BBNaija 11: Oyin Asks Biggie for Loan During Diary Room Chat

The planned Nigerian appearance remains a subject of public debate, with opinions divided between those supporting cultural engagement and those calling for stronger reactions to xenophobic concerns.