Senator Natasha H. Akpoti has called on the Federal Government and the Nigeria Immigration Service to review visa applications from South African artistes and their entourages if reports that Ayra Starr and her team were denied entry visas into South Africa are confirmed.
According to the senator, Nigeria should apply the principle of reciprocity in its foreign policy, saying Nigerian citizens and artistes deserve fair and respectful treatment whenever they travel abroad.
She also made it clear that her message is not directed at South African singer Tyla, but at the need for mutual respect between both countries.
She wrote:
“Principle of Reciprocity in Foreign Policy
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.
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 recognized 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.
Viva Nigeria 🇳🇬
Senator Natasha H Akpoti Uduaghan
Kogi Central”
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