Akon accused of using giant bubble to avoid contracting Ebola during show

Akon Accused of Using Giant Bubble to Avoid Contracting Ebola During Show

Oct 3, 2014

In a recent performance in Democratic Republic of the Congo, rapper Akon surfed through the crowd in rather unique fashion — inside of a giant, clear bubble.

The stunt, however, has some accusing the rapper of avoiding direct contact with the crowd to prevent himself from becoming infected with Ebola.

The Ebola epidemic has resulted in more than 3,000 deaths in West Africa this year, including 42 to date in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, according to the Daily Mail.

However, some outlets pointed out that the giant ball that Akon broke out for the September 21 show has also been used in the past — such as during 2010 concerts in Australia and Dubai. The Independent also pointed out that similar gimmicks have been used by The Flaming Lips, all the way back in 2009, and more recently, Diplo, in 2012.

While the hip hop star has yet to comment on the matter, that didn’t stop some fans from jumping on Twitter and criticizing the singer, with one writing, “The organisers of that concert need to whooped. So protect Akon, the crowd can share Ebola amongst themselves for all u care.”

The September 21 show, held as part of International Peace Day in Goma, had more than 60,000 attendees.