Nigerian superstar Burna Boy has finally opened up about the incident that led to him kicking a fan during his performance at the 2025 Lagos Countdown concert.
A video that captured the moment has since gone viral, sparking widespread controversy on social media. The footage shows the Grammy-winning artist abruptly leaving the stage after what appeared to be an altercation with a fan who tried to touch him while he was performing. The incident has ignited a heated debate online, with many expressing disappointment over Burna Boy’s reaction.
Criticism came swiftly, with social media users labeling Burna Boy as arrogant and dismissive. Several commenters expressed outrage, suggesting that the singer’s actions were uncalled for, even under the circumstances.
These reactions have added to an ongoing narrative about the artist’s perceived aloofness and temperamental nature. While some fans called for accountability, others defended the singer, pointing out that celebrities often face challenges in managing their boundaries during live performances.
Responding to the backlash, Burna Boy took to his Instagram story on Wednesday evening to address the situation. He explained that his reaction was tied to his personal struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a condition that makes sudden and unexpected movements particularly unsettling for him.
“It was a free show. I was supposed to do 10 minutes and did almost one hour. Everybody knows my rule about getting on stage and startling me when I’m performing,” he wrote. Burna Boy also expressed gratitude to his fans in Lagos but reiterated his warning against breaching his boundaries.
The singer further elaborated, “I had an amazing time with Lagos State last night. Don’t jump on my stage like that! I got PTSD. I love you all. Happy New Year.” His statement shed light on the challenges artists face while navigating mental health issues in the high-pressure environment of live performances.
For Burna Boy, the combination of PTSD and the unpredictability of fans’ actions underscores the importance of maintaining strict rules during his shows. His candidness about his condition also highlights a broader conversation about mental health and its impact on public figures.
PTSD, or post-traumatic stress disorder, is a mental health condition characterized by the inability to recover from a traumatic event. Symptoms may include anxiety, flashbacks, and heightened sensitivity to external stimuli.
Burna Boy’s disclosure brings attention to the struggles that even the most successful individuals may face, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding. While his reaction has divided public opinion, it also serves as a reminder of the complexities of balancing personal boundaries with public expectations in the life of a global star.
