The African Council on Narcotics (ACON) has suggested that the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) suspend Azeez Adeshina Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, from his role as an ambassador until an investigation into the death of young Nigerian musician Ilerioluwa Oladimeni Aloba, also known as MOHBAD, is concluded. Additionally, ACON has urged government agencies to carefully evaluate potential brand ambassadors to ensure that they are appropriate representatives. This information was reported by Vanguard.
In a press release issued in Abuja, ACON President Rekpene Bassey explained that the reason for appointing a brand ambassador is to enhance the brand’s image in a positive manner. This statement was made in light of the recent controversy and comments regarding the death of MOHBAD on September 12, 2023, and the alleged quick burial within 24 hours in Ikorodu, Lagos.
He said, “In response to this, the Nigeria Police ordered a thorough investigation into the cause of his death. As a result, the homicide investigators took several steps, including conducting an autopsy by exhuming the remains.”
“Numerous individuals are currently being interrogated about the case. These actions are being taken due to suspicions that his death was orchestrated through the forced ingestion of dangerous substances by individuals known to be associated with him.”
As we wait for the official investigation to conclude, it’s important to question why Naira Marley, one of the suspects connected to MOHBAD’s death, was appointed as an ambassador for the NDLEA – Nigeria’s top anti-drug agency. This was stated by an individual who believes that Naira Marley doesn’t represent positive social values, given his public behavior and that of his followers who refer to themselves as Marlians.
He described them as mostly deviant individuals involved in youth gangs, cultism, internet fraud, petty crime, and substance abuse. He questioned how such a person could serve as a role model for Nigerian youth.
“The appointment of a brand ambassador should represent a positive influence on the brand. Engaging someone whose actions contradict the values upheld by the NDLEA is equivalent to endorsing behaviors that the agency stands against.”
He said that the NDLEA should reconsider Naira Marley’s appointment to avoid sending the wrong message to the impressionable minds of young people.