“What’s PTSD please”— Internet reacts to Burna Boy’s statement after leaving the stage midway following a fan incident

Many fans online have reacted to Burna Boy's statement after he left the stage midway on January 1, 2025. The Grammy-winning rapper abruptly got off the stage during his performance at the Greater Lagos Countdown 2025 in Lagos, Nigeria.

Burna Boy (born Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu) was part of a star-studded New Year countdown concert in Lagos. However, things took a turn when a fan allegedly breached security and rushed onto the stage. The rapper walked off the stage abruptly after appearing to fight off the fan.

Shortly after, he posted a statement on his Instagram story explaining the situation that unfolded during the concert. After revealing that he performed for free, the rapper explained that he was on stage for almost an hour despite being allocated 10 minutes. He also talked about having PTSD while explaining why he reacted that way when a fan invaded the stage.

"Everybody knows my rule about getting on stage and startling me when I'm performing. 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," he concluded.

As per Mayo Clinic, PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) is a mental health condition caused by an "extremely stressful or terrifying event." Symptoms of PTSD include "flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event."

Netizens were quick to react to Burna Boy's statement on X. While some were curious about his PTSD, others criticized the rapper for his actions.

"What's PTSD please," a fan wrote on X.

"All Nigerians owe Burna Boy an apology. He’s bravely shared that he’s dealing with PTSD, which is recognized as a disability in foreign countries.Many people who are diagnosed with PTSD are unable to work again. For Burna to keep pushing forward and chasing success despite this, we all need to give him the respect he deserves. Love from my side, and I apologize, Mr. Burna," wrote another.

"I haven’t seen a single tweet criticizing the guy that jumped on stage buh Burna boy is the problem? Oya nau," one user opined.

Highlighting that Burna Boy had performed for almost an hour despite being allotted ten minutes, one fan wrote:

"A reminder about respecting boundaries, even at a free show. It’s amazing that ODG gave almost an hour instead of the expected 10 minutes. The mention of PTSD shows how important safety is during performances. Respect Burna's space, abeg!"

"The organizers and security personnel have a critical responsibility to ensure the artist's safety and well-being during the performance. In this case, it seems that the security measures in place might have been inadequate or insufficient, allowing the fan to get too close," one user chimed in.

However, many X users criticized the Nigerian rapper.

"So, bcus it's a free show that's why you clear assaulted a man that never intended to attack you on stage and almost injured him. Oga, if you don't want fun to run up to you on stage, then perform in a cage. Your stupid rule should end in your bedroom," a netizen opined.

"I've seen the video and I have no sympathy for the fan, If I'm being honest. What I'd like to know is if you'd treat your fans abroad in the same manner?" another added.

"PTSD and you buying cars everyday. No wonder you keep spending like you not sure of the next minute," inferred another user on X.

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A closer look at the Burna Boy incident at Greater Lagos Countdown 2025

Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Seyi Vibez were some of the high-profile artists scheduled to perform at the Greater Lagos Countdown 2025 at the Tafawa Balewa Square on January 1, 2025. The Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Art and Culture organized the event.

However, things plummeted fast when a fan breached the security personnel and jumped onto the stage during Burna Boy's performance. Viral footage from the incident shows Burna Boy and the fan fighting before the latter is escorted away by security.

The Grammy-winning rapper is seen kicking the fan before allegedly asking the DJ to stop the music. After the incident, he abruptly left the stage.

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Burna Boy is scheduled to perform in Europe throughout 2025. His European Tour will kick off with performances at Stade De France (April 18), Waldbuhne (July 5), and Monchengladbach (July 6).