Known for his famous song, "Send down the rain," the musician, popularly called rainmaker, is currently receiving care at a rehabilitation facility, Synapse Services, Abuja, to overcome his addiction to drugs and alcohol.
Speaking to journalists at the rehabilitation facility in Abuja yesterday, he said he chose to listen to advice to seek treatment for his addiction, adding that life circumstances also contributed to his predicament which has left him bankrupt without funds to assist himself.
Speaking on his various rehabilitation programmes, Majek Fashek noted that his previous treatments did not suit his personality as they were filled with restrictions, but added that his present treatment allows him to be himself in a conducive environment.
He said, "I want to appreciate all those who have contributed to help me access care, especially Chief Ayiri Emami, Monica Swaida who started the campaign and my brothers, Black Rice and Charly Boy who have stood by me during this period".
Earlier in his remarks, the medical director of Synapse Services, Dr Vincent Udenze said that Nigerians should encourage and support Majek Fashek while those with addiction problems should see him as a model and seek help.
He said that most people unfortunately abuse drugs and alcohol without necessarily knowing the implication to their mental health, but refuse to seek treatment because of criticism and stigmatisation.
Udenze added, "Addiction is a problem that can affect anyone irrespective of race, socio-economic status or religion; it is good that Majek has come out to willingly let people know his problem, but he is not the only artiste with such a problem; we need to offer them help without being judgemental".
Monica Swaida, also a recording artiste and one of the supporting artistes for Majek who started the campaign for his treatment, said her only desire is to see him well and recording music for which he is well known at home and abroad.
His major sponsor, Chief Ayiri Emami, a philanthropist and CEO of A & E Petrol Nigeria Limited, who was represented by Dr Emiko Ofuyaekpone, assured that no resources will be spared in the treatment of Majek Fashek.
Emami is said to be a Nigerian interested in giving back to society by helping the needy and vulnerable.
source:leadership.
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