Nigerian singer Lil Smart, a former signee of Naira Marley’s Marlian Music, has been arrested by the police for allegedly making false accusations against his former boss.
The charges against him include criminal defamation, cyberstalking, cyberbullying, and spreading falsehoods.
His arrest follows claims he made in December 2024 via his Instagram handle, @lilsmart_, alleging that Naira Marley and fellow musician Zinoleesky attempted to kidnap him.
In his post, Lil Smart warned that if anything happened to him, Naira Marley should be held responsible. He also accused Naira Marley of bribing law enforcement officers in Lagos, engaging in credit card fraud, and robbing him of $300.
However, in a statement issued by the police on Thursday, February 6, authorities disclosed that Lil Smart admitted in writing that his accusations were false and lacked evidence.
The arrest came after a petition was filed by Naira Marley’s legal representatives, leading to an investigation by the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Unit.
On January 28, 2025, officers apprehended Lil Smart at his residence in Megamound Estate, Ajah, Lagos, recovering evidence related to the case.
The police emphasized that such false allegations could have serious consequences, not only for those directly involved but also for public trust in the justice system.
Lil Smart’s claims initially gained traction on social media, sparking mixed reactions. While some expressed sympathy for him, others demanded proof of his allegations against Naira Marley and Zinoleesky.