Naira Marley holds concert in Abuja, despite Covid-19 lockdown

Nigerian singer and rapper Naira Marley has made headlines this week as he defied lockdown restrictions to hold a concert in the nation’s capital, Abuja.

The controversial figure performed on Saturday, having flown from Lagos to Abuja despite the interstate travel ban and social distancing orders.

The Silverbird Entertainment Centre was sold out for the concerts with tickets priced between N20,000 and N250,000. The event was held as a drive-in concert to somewhat adhere to lockdown measures, but still raised eyebrows from those concerned about the message it sends to would-be concert goers.

The Ministry for Aviation has since suspended the ExecuJet airline for providing misleading information as the nature of Mr Marley’s travel.

A government spokesperson revealed on Twitter, “Ministry of Aviation has suspended operations of the ExecuJet indefinitely for providing false information to convey Naira Markey to Abuja for a concert.

“The flight was initially approved to convey a service Justice from Lagos to Abuja.”

The airline will face a financial penalty and the captain of the aircraft used to fly Mr Marley will also be sanctioned.  

Photo: Premium Times