Nigerian DJs push back on artist power after Burna Boy clash
A fresh controversy adds to growing scrutiny around Burna Boy, as DJs move to assert their influence within the music ecosystem.
The Nigerian DJs Association has announced a temporary boycott of Burna Boy’s music, directing its members in Nigeria and the diaspora to pull his songs from their playlists following an alleged altercation with DJ Tunez at a private Lagos event.
The incident, which has been widely discussed across social media, reportedly involved a confrontation inside a nightclub that escalated into a physical clash. Eyewitness accounts claim multiple individuals were involved, with DJ Tunez said to have been assaulted during the scuffle.
In a strongly worded statement shared on Instagram, the DJ body framed its response as a matter of solidarity and professional dignity within the entertainment ecosystem.
“Dear NDJ, no one is born hating another because of the skin colour, religion, background or gender. People simply learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can also be taught to love,” the association said.
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Reaffirming its stance, the group emphasised its commitment to fairness and collective protection for DJs across the industry.
“Here at NigerianDJ, we put all our DJs first, standing firm on ‘ALL DJs are EQUAL,’ and offering a transparent, personal service to help our DJs and clients achieve their goals… both at home and in the diaspora.”
The association went further to anchor its decision on broader principles of rights and equality within the profession.
“Where, after all, do universal human rights begin? In small places… where every male and female NDJ seek equal justice, equal opportunity and equal dignity without discrimination.”
While calling for tolerance across the industry, the group maintained a firm position against any perceived mistreatment of its members.
“We cannot all succeed when half of us are being held back… The NigerianDJ is fully against the discrimination of any of its NDJ.”
It concluded with a clear directive:
“Burna Boy’s music is temporarily out of any of our DJs’ playlists till further notice. Our team will conduct a thorough investigation into the incident… We urge DJs in Nigeria to remain vigilant and respectful toward artists at their events.”
As of the time of reporting, there has been no official response from Burna Boy’s management.
