Nigerian singer Charles Chibuezechukwu, popularly known as Crayon, has recently opened up about his harrowing battle with drug addiction, revealing how it almost cost him his life. In a candid interview with YouTuber Korty EO, the “Ngozi” hitmaker shared his painful experience, recounting the moments that led him to a psychiatric hospital and how his close friend and fellow artist Rema came to his aid during one of his darkest moments.
Crayon began by recalling a disturbing episode that took place right in front of his record label’s office, where his behavior deeply concerned those around him. “There was a day my manager saw me and was alarmed by my condition. He asked what was wrong with me, and I told him I only smoked weed,” Crayon shared. However, it quickly became apparent that something far more serious was happening. He began acting erratically, walking barefoot down the street towards Mavin studio, seemingly disconnected from reality.
Reflecting on the incident, Crayon expressed gratitude that no one captured the moment on camera. “I feel like I’m God’s favorite because nobody recorded me during the episode. If someone had recorded me, it would have messed with my confidence, my career, and everything,” he admitted. This episode was a pivotal moment for the singer, where he felt mentally and emotionally drained, leading to self-destructive behavior, including smashing his phone in front of the studio gate.
As the situation spiraled, calls started flooding in from concerned friends and colleagues, including Rema, who quickly arrived on the scene. According to Crayon, Rema showed up with a stick, prepared to defend his friend if necessary. In a moment of vulnerability, Crayon found comfort in Rema’s words, as he lay on his lap, feeling disoriented and lost. “Rema was like, ‘Bro, trust me, once you pass this stage, you will come out great because I feel like this is the final battle you’re about to fight,’” Crayon recounted. Despite his confusion and inability to fully recognize those around him, Rema’s words stuck with him.
The situation had escalated to such a point that Crayon almost jumped out of a moving car, highlighting the severity of his mental state. Comparing his experience to that of the late singer Mohbad, Crayon noted the similarities in how the mental toll of addiction can lead to dangerous and reckless behavior.
Eventually, Crayon was taken to a psychiatric hospital in Lekki, where he received the help he desperately needed. He described how deeply the addiction had affected him and how close he came to losing everything he had worked for in his career. After receiving treatment, Crayon was able to return to a more stable place in his life, even visiting Don Jazzy’s house after his recovery, marking a turning point in his journey.
Crayon’s story is a powerful reminder of the challenges many artists face behind the scenes, particularly when it comes to mental health and substance abuse. His openness about his struggle sheds light on the importance of support systems, as friends like Rema played a crucial role in helping him through his darkest moments. The singer’s vulnerability in sharing his experience may inspire others who are dealing with similar issues to seek help and know they are not alone in their battles.
As Crayon continues to move forward in his career, he does so with a newfound sense of purpose and strength, having faced and overcome one of the most difficult challenges in his life. His journey serves as both a cautionary tale and a story of redemption, showing that even in the face of immense struggle, it is possible to come out stronger on the other side.
