Nigerian pop sensation Ayra Starr has come under heavy criticism on social media over her perceived insensitivity to the tragic killings in Benue State, which reportedly left over 200 people dead.
The controversy began when the singer posted a lighthearted tweet amid national mourning, prompting an X user to accuse her of not “reading the room.” In response, Ayra replied,
“We not in the same room, babes.”
This remark quickly ignited a wave of outrage, with many online branding the response as tone-deaf and lacking empathy. Reactions from users included:
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“200+ people died in Benue, and your comeback for not reading the room is that you’re not in it? That’s so insensitive.”
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“Lmfaoooo, this ain’t it. This ain’t it at alllll.”
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“This is very insensitive, but enjoy.”
Amid mounting criticism, Ayra Starr returned to X to defend herself, claiming she was being deliberately misunderstood and targeted:
“There’s nothing I can do nor say to people that intentionally want to bully and misunderstand me every time. You’ve found a scapegoat abi? Focus on issues that actually matter and leave me tf alone.”
The backlash comes in the wake of a June 13, 2025 massacre in Benue State, where suspected armed herdsmen attacked Daudu and Yelewata communities in Guma Local Government Area. Homes were set ablaze with families trapped inside, leaving hundreds—including children and the elderly—dead.
The atrocity has sparked national and international outrage. Pope Leo publicly condemned the killings, while many Nigerians have criticized President Bola Tinubu for his silence on the incident.
