The South African government has denied claims that Nigerian music star Ayra Starr and members of her team were refused visas ahead of a scheduled performance in the country.
South Africa’s Consul-General to Nigeria, Prof. Bobby Moroe, said immigration authorities had no record of any visa application or rejection involving the singer or her entourage.
Speaking in an interview on Friday, Moroe challenged those making the allegations to provide evidence, including the names of the affected individuals and their visa application reference numbers, to enable the South African mission investigate the claims.
“We have no record of any visa application or rejection involving Ayra Starr or members of her team. Those making the claims should provide the necessary details so we can verify them,” he said.
The response follows calls by some Nigerian political figures for the Federal Government to review visa applications submitted by South African artistes under the principle of reciprocity.
Former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole and the senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, argued that Nigeria should consider reciprocal measures if it is confirmed that Ayra Starr and her team were previously denied entry into South Africa.
Akpoti-Uduaghan stated that if the allegations were proven, Nigerian authorities should ensure that South African entertainers receive the same treatment until Nigerian citizens and artistes are accorded fair and respectful treatment.
The controversy stems from reports that Ayra Starr and members of her team were allegedly denied South African visas in February 2024, leading to the cancellation of scheduled performances in Johannesburg and Cape Town.
At the time, concert organisers Steyn Entertainment attributed the cancellation of the shows to visa-related issues.
The latest development comes amid renewed tensions between Nigeria and South Africa following criticism over South Africa’s handling of foreign nationals and recent controversies surrounding South African artistes performing in Nigeria.
