The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has emphasized that Azeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, a Nigerian artiste and drug advocate, would face arrest if found in possession of illegal substances.
According to a report from ONIFTV, the agency’s spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, addressed the controversy surrounding the use of the provocative singer in its campaign against drug abuse. Naira Marley had recently visited NDLEA Chairman Buba Marwa in Abuja and urged young people to abstain from using illicit substances.
The agency faced criticism on social media for selecting a musician often associated with glorifying drug abuse as an advocate. Babafemi clarified in an interview with our correspondent that Marley’s role as an advocate did not exempt him from legal consequences if he were caught with drugs in the future.
Babafemi explained that NDLEA deliberately engaged the controversial artist due to his substantial following of young listeners. He urged critics to concentrate on the message itself rather than the messenger. Babafemi underlined that the agency’s goal was to discourage substance abuse, and Naira Marley’s influence over his youthful fan base was a crucial factor in their decision.
He emphasized, “The engagement with him is centered around advocacy. This is a facet of our agency’s duties — disseminating messages that discourage substance abuse. The focus is on the message itself.”
Babafemi also drew attention to Naira Marley’s significant influence on his followers, the so-called “Marlians.” He revealed that NDLEA had previously arrested some of Naira Marley’s associated artistes, such as Zinoleesky and Mohbad, demonstrating the agency’s commitment to enforcement.
Concluding his statement, Babafemi affirmed that if Naira Marley were to be apprehended with illicit substances in the future, he would be subjected to legal sanctions.