Lawmaker representing Kogi Central senatorial district, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has urged the Federal Government and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to review visa applications submitted by South African artistes, citing the principle of reciprocity in foreign policy.
Senator Natasha made the call in a Facebook post on Thursday while reacting to growing campaigns by some Nigerians urging a boycott of South African singer Tyla’s planned concert in Lagos following reports of attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa.
Her comments also came after reports that South African authorities denied Nigerian singer Ayra Starr and members of her team visas, resulting in the cancellation of their scheduled performance in the country.
In a post shared on her Instagram page, the lawmaker said Nigeria should adopt equivalent diplomatic measures if it is confirmed that Ayra Starr and her crew were denied entry into South Africa.
“I call on the Nigeria Immigration Service and the Federal Government of Nigeria to review the visa applications of South African artistes and their entourages in accordance with the principle of reciprocity in foreign policy.
“If it is confirmed that our Nigerian artiste, Ayra Starr, and her team were denied entry visas to South Africa, leading to the cancellation of their engagements, then Nigeria should respond with equivalent measures until Nigerian citizens and artistes are accorded fair and respectful treatment,” she said.
Senator Natasha clarified that her position was not directed at Tyla personally but was based on the need for Nigeria to defend the interests of its citizens through established diplomatic principles.
“This is not a call against Tyla as an individual. Rather, it is a call for Nigeria to uphold the principle of mutual respect that underpins international relations. Reciprocity is a recognised instrument of diplomacy.
“When our citizens face discriminatory or unjust treatment abroad, Nigeria must demonstrate that such actions carry corresponding consequences.
“Our foreign policy should protect the dignity of Nigerians everywhere and ensure that respect between nations is mutual, not one-sided,” she added.
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