Afrobeats star Ayra Starr has found herself at the center of controversy after a video of her dancing to a Naira Marley song surfaced online. The clip, initially posted on her page before being deleted, now lives on through Naira Marley’s social media—an ironic reminder that once something is uploaded, it’s never truly gone.
The backlash stems from the ongoing fallout surrounding Mohbad’s tragic passing. Many still hold Naira Marley and his associates responsible for the alleged bullying and harassment Mohbad endured before his death, making any public association with the artist a sensitive subject. Given this backdrop, some critics have labeled Ayra’s actions as tone-deaf and insensitive.
A Deeper Look at the Outrage
To some, vibing to a song doesn’t equate to endorsing the artist’s past actions. After all, music is subjective, and artists—like everyone else—should have the freedom to enjoy what resonates with them. But for others, this isn’t just about music—it’s about solidarity, respect, and the painful memories that Mohbad’s case still evokes.
“Ayra Starr is free to listen to whatever she likes,” one commentator wrote. “But posting it publicly? That’s where the problem lies. It’s the insensitivity, not the music itself.”
Others argue that the outrage is misplaced. “Where’s this same energy for the government agencies that failed Mohbad? It’s been months, and there are still no concrete results from the investigation,” another person noted.
Selective Outrage?
A growing number of voices are calling out what they see as hypocrisy in the industry. Some critics point out that many who are quick to judge Ayra Starr remain silent when it comes to addressing deeper systemic issues—whether it’s the lack of justice for Mohbad or the broader exploitation within the music industry.
“Same people who wine and dine with corrupt politicians are now acting as moral police,” one user wrote. “The double standards are exhausting.”
At its core, this debate goes beyond Ayra Starr. It speaks to the collective grief and frustration of a fan base still seeking justice for Mohbad. It highlights the lingering wounds in the industry, where lines between personal choice, public responsibility, and social justice are often blurred.
Should Ayra Starr have been more mindful of the sensitivities surrounding Naira Marley? Maybe. But is the outrage directed at her truly addressing the real problem? That’s a question worth asking.
