In the aftermath of the Afrozons-Heineken Pre-Grammy party incident, Ayra Starr’s apologies today, 27 January 2024, on social media have not quelled the dissatisfaction among fans. They deem 21-year-old’s use of the term “Uncle” disrespectful when addressing Juju music legend King Sunny Ade, who is 78.
The award winning Afrobeats sensation faced criticism after a video went viral, capturing her interaction with Burna Boy’s mother, Bose Ogulu, and the legendary Sunny Ade. Many Nigerians perceived the greeting as inappropriate, leading to a barrage of online reactions.
In response to the backlash, Ayra Starr took to her X page on Saturday to offer an apology. She explained, “I’m so sorry, I had just walked in and all the lights and nerves didn’t let me see, but I came back around to greet everyone properly. I have never been that girl to be disrespectful; I’m a proper Yoruba girlllll and the video didn’t start until after I’d greeted Burna’s mom! I’m very sorry to the legend, uncle, and King Sunny Ade.”
However, not all fans are appeased by the apology. One X user, @Lexyzdoo, expressed dissatisfaction, suggesting that a proper greeting should be extended to King Sunny Ade, emphasising the importance of showing respect where it’s due.
Other users chimed in, questioning Ayra Starr’s use of the term “Uncle” when addressing the Juju music icon. @Ishow_leck commented, “Let’s assume it was not intentional and you made corrections, that’s fine. What about the statement Uncle and King Sunny Ade? Did you just call him uncle? Missed priority as a Yoruba girl if you call him that; he’s older to be your granddad.”
@Officially_Kriz went a curt step further, stating, “He’s not your uncle. He’s your Dad.”
As discussions around Ayra Starr’s apology unfolds, fans continue to engage in the discourse, emphasising the cultural and generational nuances associated with expressions of respect in Nigerian society. The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the proper etiquettes when addressing revered figures in the music and media industry.
In 2021, AriseTV anchor and former presidential spokesman Reuben Abati expressed frustration when a correspondent, Mary Chinda, called him by name during a live TV update on Nigerian evacuees at the airport. Abati questioned the appropriateness, asking if she had attended his naming ceremony and expressing dissatisfaction with what he perceived as a lack of manners.
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