Naira Marley Breaks Silence On Cultism Among Artists In Naija Music Space

OpenLife Nigeria reports that popular Nigerian rapper Azeez Fashola, professionally known as Naira Marley, has publicly expressed serious concern over the increasing influence of cultism in the country’s music scene. According to him, only a very small number of artists including himself have chosen to stay away from secret cults.

He has openly criticised musicians who reportedly join these groups in search of influence, power, or protection, pointing out the irony that even those who recruit others into cults still depend on police escorts for their own safety.

In a post on his X account (formerly Twitter), Naira Marley wrote:

“We no reach 5 weh never join cult for this [music] industry. Person weh put u for cult self dey carry police escort up and down.”

The artist has previously addressed and denied persistent rumours linking him to cult activities, revealing that he was once threatened by cult members after refusing to join their group.

BRIEF BIOGRAPHY

Azeez Adeshina Fashola was born on May 10, 1991, in Agege, Lagos State, Nigeria.

He later adopted the stage name Naira Marley as a tribute to reggae legend Bob Marley. At the age of 11, he moved to Peckham, South London, where he completed his secondary and further education, earning a distinction in business studies and later pursuing business law.

Although he initially considered a career in voice acting or as an MC, he eventually shifted his focus to music after encouragement from friends, combining his Nigerian heritage with the sounds and influences he encountered in the UK.

CAREER OVERVIEW

Naira Marley began releasing music around 2013, with early singles such as “Marry Juana” (featuring Max Twigz) and his debut EP Gotta Dance in 2014.

He gained wider recognition by fusing Afrobeats, dancehall, hip-hop, and street slang, often delivering lyrics in Pidgin and Yoruba.

His breakout moment came with the 2018 World Cup anthem “Issa Goal,” followed by the controversial yet massively popular track “Am I A Yahoo Boy?” in 2019. That same year, he launched his record label, Marlian Records, signing promising talents including Zinoleesky, Mohbad, Rexxie, and others. His discography includes notable projects such as the Lord of Lamba EP (2019) and the 2022 album God’s Timing’s the Best, with hit singles like “Soapy,” “Kojosese,” and “Puta” becoming street anthems.

IMPACT ON NIGERIAN MUSIC

Naira Marley is widely credited with popularising a distinctive street-pop sound that blends Afro-Bashment, dancehall, and Afrobeats, helping to shape modern Nigerian youth culture. His loyal fanbase, known as “Marlians,” adopted a rebellious, carefree identity under his self-proclaimed “presidency,” sparking viral dance trends, slang phrases like “No Mannaz,” and a strong sense of community among fans.

Through his music and label, he has influenced a new generation of artists and elevated the visibility of street-oriented sounds in mainstream Nigerian entertainment, while also generating ongoing conversations about youth expression, morality, and influence in the industry.

CHALLENGES AND SETBACKS

Naira Marley’s career has faced several major obstacles. In 2019, he was arrested by the EFCC over allegations related to internet fraud, partly linked to the lyrics of “Am I A Yahoo Boy?,” resulting in a short period of detention.

The most significant and damaging challenge came with the sudden death of his former signee, singer Mohbad (Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba), in September 2023 at age 27.

Mohbad had publicly accused Marley and others of mistreatment, assault, and failure to pay royalties before exiting Marlian Records in 2022.

Following Mohbad’s death, intense public speculation and accusations targeted Naira Marley and associate Sam Larry, leading to widespread backlash: nationwide bans on his music by radio stations, sharp drops in streaming numbers, cancelled shows, and temporary arrests in late 2023. Although he was later cleared by a magistrate court in early 2025, the controversy severely damaged his public image, disrupted releases, and alienated a large portion of his audience.

EFFORTS TO REGAIN PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE

In the aftermath of the Mohbad controversy, Naira Marley has taken deliberate steps to rebuild trust and visibility.

In August 2025, he released a documentary titled “My Side of the Story,” in which he addressed the allegations, denied involvement in Mohbad’s death, and shared details of earlier reconciliation attempts.

Legal clearance in 2025 provided important vindication. He has since refocused on music and live performances, announcing international shows including a planned concert in Cameroon in January 2026 and engaging fans through giveaways and new content.

Support from certain influencers and a return to consistent music output have helped gradually shift attention back toward his artistry.

Naira Marley’s journey in the Nigerian music industry combines significant creative influence, cultural relevance, and notable resilience in the face of serious personal and professional challenges.

As he continues to release music, perform, and connect with fans, his ongoing efforts reflect a determination to move forward through artistic work and renewed audience engagement in an ever-evolving entertainment space.