The Nigerian DJ Association (NDJ) has announced a temporary nationwide ban on songs by Afrobeats star Burna Boy, following reports of a physical altercation involving the artist and DJ Tunez at a private event in Lagos.
In a statement posted on its official Instagram page, the NDJ called on DJs across the country to uphold professionalism, tolerance, and mutual respect within the entertainment industry.
According to the association, videos circulating on social media showed an alleged confrontation between Burna Boy and DJ Tunez at the residence of a socialite identified as Obi. Some online accounts claimed that DJ Tunez was trampled during the incident, although these reports have not been independently verified.
The NDJ confirmed that it has launched a full investigation into the matter and promised to make its findings public once concluded. However, the association did not provide a timeline for the completion of the probe.
In its statement, the NDJ emphasised the importance of equality and solidarity among DJs and artists. It reiterated its guiding principle that all DJs deserve equal respect and protection within the industry.
“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 statement read in part.
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The association further stressed that discrimination, prejudice, or mistreatment of DJs is unacceptable, urging members to ensure freedom, equality, and professionalism in their engagements.
In what many observers have described as a bold and controversial move, the NDJ declared that Burna Boy’s music would be removed from the playlists of its members nationwide until further notice.
“Burna Boy music is temporarily out of any of our DJs’ playlists until further notice. Our team will carry out a proper investigation on last night’s incident involving one of our own, DJ Tunez. We urge DJs in Nigeria to be vigilant and respectful toward any individual artist at their events. Respect among DJs is essential,” the association stated.
The decision is expected to spark debate within Nigeria’s vibrant music scene, where DJs play a pivotal role in promoting artists and shaping public reception of songs.
The development comes amid heightened scrutiny of relationships between artists and DJs in Nigeria’s entertainment industry. With social media amplifying disputes and controversial incidents within hours, tensions between performers and event facilitators have increasingly played out in the public domain.
Industry stakeholders say the situation underscores the need for clearer standards of conduct and improved conflict resolution mechanisms within the sector.
As of the time of filing this report, Burna Boy’s management team has not issued any official response to the allegations or the NDJ’s directive.
The NDJ describes itself as the umbrella body overseeing DJ operations in Nigeria, providing professional guidance and advocating for equitable treatment of DJs across the country.