Majekodunmi Fashekun, better known as Majek Fashek, a popular reggae singer and guitarist, on Monday admitted his addiction to alcohol and drugs, warning youths against following his example.
Briefing newsmen in Abuja, Fashek however disclosed that he had commenced a rehabilitation process.
He condemned alcoholism and drug abuse habits by many young people and individuals, adding that alcohol and the use of drugs were not beneficial to the health of anyone.
He said: “People should stop the use of alcohol and drugs because being drunk will end up destroying your career and your plans for the future.
“Coming to the rehab is not a bad idea because I realised that I am addicted to alcohol and it was beginning to affect my output and what I enjoy doing and decided to seek for help.
“I am not the first singer or person that will go to the rehab.
“Most renowned celebrities we know today go to rehabilitation centres to cool their memory.”
The musician also said that he would had been a movie star in the entertainment industry but could not continue with the initiative, adding that lots of skill in retention of script was needed for such roles.
Fashek said: “I publicly admitted to addiction to alcohol because so many things are being said about me on the social media and nobody forced me to the rehab.
“Propaganda of scandal was being monotonous to my generation.
“I want to run from the stress of Babylon of Africa and I need to be credited for the works I have done.”
Fashek stated that he was not deported from the United States, adding that he is just fighting to protect the legacy of his children and that he also needs peace for his consciousness.
He, however, enjoined people that might be struggling with any form of addiction to always seek for assistance.
Dr. Vincent Udenze, Consultant and Psychiatrist to Fashek, said his rehabilitation would take a while, adding that it would be a journey.
Udenze said: “Rehabilitation is a long term journey.
“Even if he leaves the centre and goes home, he is still on that journey and that is how we conceptualise rehabilitation.”
Udenze said Fashek was willing to engage in the rehabilitation process irrespective of the duration.
The expert, however, called on individuals who might be having same addiction challenge to speak up for assistance in confidential rehabilitation centres.
He said: “Fashek had a problem and recognised he needs help.
“Someone is financing that help and he is willing to work with us in this journey.
“To those who have a drug problem, no matter how bad it is, there is help out there with confidential services that can get you better.”
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Fashek had volunteered sponsors that include musician and producer, Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charlie Boy; businessman, Ayiri Emami; and Monica Swaida.
NAN.