Nigeria News Today: Tiwa Savage Faces Backlash Over Apology on Tyla’s “Coloured” Remark

By Amanabo Ocholi | The Bureau News

Nigerian Afrobeats star Tiwa Savage is facing criticism online after apologising on behalf of South African Grammy winner Tyla, who recently described herself as “coloured” (mixed race) during an interview in the United States. The term sparked controversy due to its derogatory history in America.

The Apology on The Breakfast Club

Savage appeared on the popular US radio show The Breakfast Club this week, where she explained that her apology was rooted in cultural tradition. “Where I am from, when something like that happens, the elder will come on behalf of the young one to apologise,” she said. “If that wasn’t communicated well, on behalf of her, I would like to apologise.”

Tyla’s Identity Statement

Tyla, while on a separate US radio interview, responded that she identifies as “coloured,” a classification used in South Africa to describe people of mixed race. “In South Africa my race is called ‘coloured,’ and it’s a very stressful term to use in America because I know it’s derogatory there, but that is just what we are called in SA,” she explained.

Mixed Reactions Across Social Media

The comment drew criticism from some Americans, who argued that Tyla should not expect them to use a term historically tied to racial segregation. By contrast, South Africans defended her, stressing that “coloured” is a recognised cultural identity in their country and should not be dismissed.

Backlash Against Tiwa Savage

Weeks after the controversy, public attention shifted to Savage, with many accusing her of inserting herself unnecessarily into the debate. Critics on social media argued that Tyla herself had already clarified her position, making Savage’s apology unwarranted.

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