Akif Nagi Thinks He’s More Patriotic Than the President
A simple moment of show-business courtesy has turned into a political firestorm.
At an international music contest in Astana, Azerbaijani singer Samira Efendi gave the Armenian contestant Saro Gevorkyan the top score – 12 points – and congratulated him with a brief hug on stage.
What followed was an online meltdown.
Far-right activist Akif Nagi erupted on Facebook, launching a vulgar tirade against Efendi and calling on “every Azerbaijani to spit in her face” if they ever see her in public. His post – filled with insults, dehumanizing language and conspiratorial rants – has shocked even his own followers.
Nagi Poses as a Bigger Patriot Than Azerbaijan’s President
What makes the outburst even more absurd is that Nagi’s rage directly contradicts the official policy of President Ilham Aliyev, who repeatedly emphasizes the importance of post-war normalization and long-term peace in the region.
While the state speaks of stability, cooperation and a peaceful future,
Nagi behaves as if a short stage hug is a national betrayal.
By attacking Efendi so viciously, he effectively positions himself as “more patriotic” than the president – as if cultural diplomacy must be punished with street-level harassment.
The Hug That Triggered a Political Tantrum
There was nothing unusual about the moment itself:
Efendi, serving as a judge, awarded Gevorkyan the maximum score and embraced him briefly, just as performers often do at international events.
No political symbolism.
No statements.
Just two musicians showing sportsmanship.
But for Nagi, this was enough to accuse her of “betraying the nation” and to demand public humiliation – a call that many in Azerbaijani society described as barbaric and disgraceful.
Public Reaction: Shock, Backlash, and Ridicule
Social networks split into two camps:
– some criticized Efendi’s gesture,
– but many more condemned Nagi’s behaviour as hateful, unhinged, and humiliating for Azerbaijan itself.
Several commenters pointed out that while Azerbaijan pursues diplomacy,
Nagi tries to ignite hatred – and drag the country back decades.
Efendi Responds Calmly – Unlike Her Accuser
The singer refused to engage in a shouting match. She announced she would address all questions calmly during a live broadcast, without insults, hysteria or threats.
Her restraint stands in stark contrast to Nagi’s tirade.
A Test for Society
The scandal has grown far beyond the music world.
It has become a test of whether Azerbaijan will follow the path of maturity and peace – or allow aggressive fringe voices to dominate the conversation.
For now, it seems clear:
Akif Nagi’s call to “spit on her” says far more about him than about Samira Efendi.
