In a surprising turn of events that has stirred public discourse across Benue State and beyond, Nigerian artist Egyptian Cairo has issued a heartfelt public apology to the Tiv Nation following backlash over a recently released song titled “Naka Girls”, a collaborative effort with fellow artist Prinzkid.
The song, which had gone viral within few hours of its release, sparked outrage among many Tiv people, particularly those from the Naka area in Gwer West Local Government Area, who described the lyrics as offensive, derogatory, and disrespectful to Tiv women.
Facing mounting criticism and calls for accountability, Egyptian Cairo took to his official social media platforms and later appeared in a video interview to formally apologize for any offense caused. He acknowledged the sensitivity of cultural representation in music and expressed deep regret that the song was perceived as provocative or demeaning.
“I want to sincerely apologize to the entire Tiv Nation, especially the good people of Naka, for the hurt the song may have caused,” Cairo stated. “It was never my intention to disrespect or insult anyone. I have great admiration and love for Tiv culture and its people.”
The artist went on to clarify that the song was not intended to degrade or stereotype Tiv women but was meant as a creative expression influenced by personal experiences and artistic license. He admitted, however, that certain lyrics might have been poorly framed or misinterpreted, which warranted the public outcry.
In his address, Egyptian Cairo also took time to highlight his long-standing relationship with the Tiv community, particularly the Tyoshin daughters—referring to young women from the Tyoshin ethnic sub-group within Tivland. According to him, many of these relationships have been marked by mutual respect, cultural exchange, and strong social bonds.
“I have dated, befriended, and worked closely with many Tyoshin daughters, and I hold them in high regard,” Cairo explained. “They are intelligent, beautiful, and culturally rich individuals. My intention was never to offend them or their families.”
He further emphasized the strong, cordial relationships he maintains with numerous colleagues from the Tiv region, both within and outside the music industry. He mentioned several Tiv artists and producers who have collaborated with him over the years, describing those partnerships as “fruitful and built on mutual respect.”
Prinzkid, an artist that featured Egyptian artist on the controversial track, has yet to release an official statement. However, sources close to him suggest that he may soon address the issue in a separate video to clarify his own stance and role in the project.
Cultural and community leaders from Tivland, including youth organizations and local chiefs, have acknowledged Cairo’s apology but have also called for more responsible artistic expression going forward.
“We appreciate the apology, but artists must understand the weight of their words,” said Terna Aondofa, a youth leader from Naka. “Our women are the pride of our land, and we will not tolerate any form of public ridicule.”
Meanwhile, social media remains divided over the issue, with some users accepting Cairo’s apology and calling for forgiveness, while others continue to demand the removal of the song from all platforms.
As of the time of this report, the music video for “Naka Girls” has been temporarily taken down from major streaming platforms, pending further review by both artists and their management teams.
This controversy has reignited ongoing conversations about cultural sensitivity in the Nigerian entertainment industry, and the delicate balance between creative freedom and social responsibility. For now, Egyptian Cairo’s public apology marks a step toward reconciliation, but it remains to be seen how the Tiv Nation and its representatives will ultimately respond.
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