By Godwin.JP
Mohbad, a young and gifted Nigerian artist, died unexpectedly, sending shockwaves throughout the country and beyond the world. I had never heard of him before his death was announced, although I had heard a few of his songs on multiple occasions. Mohbad’s bright career was ‘cruelly’ cut short at the age of 27, leaving us with a terrible feeling of loss. Even amid this tragedy, however, there are essential lessons for every young Nigerian to learn.
One of the most important lessons is the danger of substance abuse and how it enslaves practically every young person. It has spread like wildfire. There is no party or gathering of young people, and you would not see narcotics on display. It’s truly tragic! My main concern is who is to blame. Government? Parents? Community? Religious organizations? Or the young individual in question?
Mohbad’s death serves as a sharp warning of the perils of substance usage, especially among young people. Every young Nigerian must be aware of the potentially disastrous repercussions of drug misuse and the company they keep. Substance experimentation can result in addiction, health concerns, and, in extreme situations, death. It is critical to prioritize one’s health and make informed decisions.
Behind the glamour and success associated with the entertainment industry is the reality of mental health issues. Many young Nigerians, including Mohbad, struggle with mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and stress. It’s critical to understand that seeking help for mental health issues is a sign of strength, not weakness. Mohbad’s experience emphasizes the importance of mental health and the necessity for more mental health awareness, support, and de-stigmatization.
In today’s world, celebrities often appear to have it all: fame, wealth, and adoration from fans. However, behind the glitz and glamour lies a harsh reality. The pressure and scrutiny of public life can take a toll on celebrities’ mental health, not even the bullying on the part of Mohbad. Recognizing the importance of mental health is not only essential for their well-being but also for setting an example for society at large.
In the entertainment industry, as in life, having a strong support network and mentorship can make a significant difference, but the right network is key to staying atop and lasting long. A lot of young people have fallen prey to the wrong network and mentorship, a typical example is Mohbad’s.
Building a support system is great asset and can provide invaluable assistance in navigating the challenges of life and career. At the same time, you need to be wise, careful and ask questions. Being in a wrong relationship can ruin your life earlier than you think.
When you clearly realize that you’re in the wrong network, speak up! Your closed mouth can cause your life. No matter how scary it can be, there is someone out there who will listen to you. There is nothing wrong when young people desire to be relevant and make their dream come true, in the quest for significance, there is a need to thread softly. Out there are hyenas, who are ready to suck them dry, and take their glory.
As a creative mind, I listened to practically all his songs; there were subtle messages that no one was prepared to hear. We were all caught up in the rhythm and completely ignored the young man’s struggles and survival. Even his parents were absent and unconcerned about his pains. In his song, the young singer stated how his stepmother didn’t care after his mother left his father, how he was sent to school but never attended, and how he got into drugs and ‘Yahoo Yahoo’.
Another critical aspect is the failure and cluelessness of our government and security agencies. Many of our young people are too idle, and this can cause a calamity as a nation. Most of these young people can be recruited into some of these agencies, Nigerian Police, Paramilitary and Military agencies.
Mohbad’s journey from an aspiring artist to a rising star in the music industry also serves as inspiration. His story demonstrates the value of determination, hard work, and perseverance in the pursuit of one’s dreams, inspite of your background.
Despite the challenges and obstacles, he achieved recognition for his talent, even in death. His legacy encourages young Nigerians to pursue their passions with dedication and resilience. When you work hard and pursue your dreams, you add value to your life.
His passing is a reminder of the importance of the legacy one leaves behind. While his music and artistry touched the hearts of many, his untimely death also serves as a call to action. As a young person, you must keep making positive contributions to society, whether through art, activism, or community service. Leaving a lasting impact on the world is a goal worth striving for.
Again, I will say that his tragic death is a sobering reminder that life is fragile, and it is essential to learn from both the successes and failures of those who came before us. Every young Nigerian can learn valuable lessons from Mohbad’s life and death, including the dangers of substance abuse, the importance of mental health, the value of pursuing one’s dreams, the importance of support networks, the pain of bad relationships, and the long-term impact one can have on the world.
As the nation mourns the loss of a young talent, let it also serve as a catalyst for positive change and a reminder that every life, regardless of its brevity, can leave a legacy. The choice is yours to make!
Godwin.JP is a comedian, event host and communications specialist.