Mohbad: Mr Nigeria advocates strict surveillance on artistes
Mr. Nigeria International 2022, Emmanuel Ajewole, has advised the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to further create a strict campaign against drug abuse, particularly in the music industry, to avert the unfortunate deaths of young artists.
Ajewole said this in an interview with the newsmen on Sunday in Lagos, following the recent death of Nigerian singer and songwriter Mohbad.
“I suggest that the government should please ensure that the NDLEA does more sensitization against substance abuse, especially in the music industry.
The fashion entrepreneur also said there should be provision of a free therapist section for those who needed it, as well as strict laws for offenders.
“Any form of drug abuse in liquid or in smoking form is not a good idea or a safe haven for anyone to find comfort or solace, especially in the entertainment industry.
“These habits are results from peer pressure who lure them to do what may lead them to doom or destruction, which is highly trending in the industry.
“There should be strict action on those caught with strange substances or anything related to drugs, bullying, or other menaces in the community.
“It’s not the pace of life that scares me; it’s the sudden stop at the end.
“It is really an unfortunate tragedy to have lost one of Nigeria’s great and talented afrobeat artists, Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, to the cold hands of death.
“As many speculations are being pushed around about the cause of his death, there's a 70 percent chance that he might have fallen into depression due to bullying and intimidation from his former associates,” he said.
Ajewole called on the youth to always open up and speak out whenever there were traces of threats to life.
“My advice is not just to young emerging artists; it is to Nigerian youths in all walks of life. Please speak out when you feel any form of bullying or oppression in any form from any angle.
“Don’t let fear make you die in silence because staying in silence might mess with your mental health and cause chronic depression and mental instability,” he advised.
He further urged youths to look out for someone experienced who could guide them, develop new techniques, and harness their skills into profitable life careers or businesses.
“When seeking mentors, it is important to take into consideration the value the person possesses and their past antecedents.
“It’s important to learn from multiple mentors who can offer you different perspectives, skills, and networks; you don’t have to limit yourself to one mentor.
“You can also diversify your mentors by choosing people from different backgrounds, roles, levels, and genres.
“It is not out of place to switch mentors in trying to move on or need a change. You can also mentor yourself and share positive wisdom and experience with others.
“In the case of the deceased artist, it’s very painful that he left on a sad note; assuming he had seen a professional therapist, it would have helped him more,” he said.
