DJs ban Burna Boy music across playlists after the Nigerian DJ Association took the step following a reported clash between Afrobeats star Burna Boy and disc jockey DJ Tunez, directing DJs in Nigeria and abroad to remove his songs until further notice.
The decision underscores rising tensions and a call for professional standards within the entertainment space.
The Nigerian DJ Association (NDJ), which represents professional DJs nationwide and abroad, issued the directive after reports circulated of a physical confrontation between Burna Boy and DJ Tunez at a Lagos event.
What began as a disagreement reportedly escalated into a physical altercation at a nightclub gathering, drawing immediate attention within the entertainment industry.
NDJ’s decision to ban the singer’s music from DJ playlists reflects a broader effort to uphold professionalism and solidarity among DJs.
The association emphasised that respect, dignity, and non‑discrimination are core values for its membership, particularly when it comes to handling disputes involving artists and DJs at events.
According to the NDJ statement shared on Instagram, all DJs were instructed to remove Burna Boy’s music from their sets “till further notice” as the association conducts a detailed investigation into the incident involving DJ Tunez.
The NDJ’s statement stressed equality and opposition to discrimination based on “skin colour, religion, background or gender.”
The reported clash occurred at a private Lagos event where eyewitness accounts said members of Burna Boy’s crew were involved in a scuffle that saw DJ Tunez allegedly assaulted.
Though specifics of the encounter remain unverified and no official response has been received from Burna Boy’s management, NDJ’s move signals unity with DJs who feel their professional environment should remain respectful.
NDJ’s leadership reiterated its stance on professionalism and mutual dignity, reminding members and industry players that DJs and artists must foster a culture of tolerance and safety at events.
The association also clarified that the ban remains temporary pending the outcome of its investigation.
The DJs ban Burna Boy music decision could have significant ripple effects across Nigeria’s entertainment landscape.
Burna Boy is one of Africa’s most streamed artists, and being excluded from DJ playlists domestically and internationally may influence airplay at clubs, events, and social settings where DJs curate musical experiences for audiences.
Industry stakeholders say the situation highlights broader debates around professionalism, conduct, and the responsibilities of artists and DJs at public functions.
DJs, as key intermediaries in Nigeria’s vibrant music scene, wield influence over what audiences hear, making NDJ’s stance particularly noteworthy.
For music venues and event organisers, the directive may prompt adjustments to programming until clarity emerges from further review.
It also raises questions about how artist conduct could intersect with industry group directives and professional codes of behaviour.
