Nigerian rapper and singer Naira Marley, born Azeez Fashola, has voiced serious concerns over what he describes as the growing menace of cultism within the Nigerian music industry.
Lamenting the troubling trend, the controversial artist claimed that only a handful of Nigerian musicians — including himself — have refused to join secret cults. According to Marley, many artists allegedly turn to cultism in search of power, protection, or influence within the industry.
Mocking the situation, the Afrobeats star pointed out the irony of the practice, noting that even those who initiate others into cults still rely on police escorts for protection.
Taking to his X (formerly Twitter) account, Naira Marley wrote in pidgin:
“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 statement has since sparked widespread reactions online, with fans and industry observers debating the extent of cult influence in Nigerian entertainment circles.
Meanwhile, Naira Marley reiterated that he is not a cultist. He has previously debunked rumours linking him to cult groups, revealing that he was once threatened by cult members for refusing to join them.
His comments add to ongoing conversations about safety, pressure, and unhealthy power dynamics within Nigeria’s creative industry — an issue many believe requires urgent attention and reform.
