Follow Us on Google
From Adesuwa Tsan, Abuja
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central) has urged the Federal Government to apply the principle of reciprocity in its visa policy following reports that Nigerian singer, Ayra Starr and members of her team were denied entry into South Africa.
In a statement issued on Friday by her media office, the senator called on the Nigeria Immigration Service and the Federal Government to review visa applications by South African artistes and their entourages in line with Nigeria’s foreign policy.
“If it is confirmed that 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.
Akpoti-Uduaghan stressed that her position was not directed at South African singer, Tyla, or any individual artiste but was aimed at promoting mutual respect between both countries.
She said reciprocity remains a recognised diplomatic tool and should be applied whenever Nigerians are subjected to discriminatory or unjust treatment abroad.
“Our foreign policy should protect the dignity of Nigerians everywhere and ensure that respect between nations is mutual, not one-sided,” she said.
