Police Confirm Lil Smart’s Arrest Over Alleged Defamation And Cyberstalking Of Naira Marley

Nigeria Police Force has arrested a dancer Idowu Smart Emmanuel, popularly known as Lil Smart, over allegations of defaming his former record label boss, Naira Marley.

Lil Smart had accused Naira Marley and his associates of kidnapping, assaulting him, and stealing $300 from him.

He also claimed that the singer bribed police officers in Lagos to evade justice and involved him in credit card fraud.

However, in a shocking turn of events, Lil Smart later admitted in a written statement that his accusations were false and lacked any proof.

It was gathered that the dancer was was arrested on January 28, 2025, at his home in Megamound Estate, Ajah, Lagos.

Police spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi confirmed the arrest during a press briefing, stating that Lil Smart was charged with criminal defamation, cyberstalking, and spreading false information.

A statement from the police detailed the allegations, revealing that Lil Smart had used his Instagram account, @lilsmart_, to make baseless claims against Naira Marley.

The statement reads: “ARREST OF SUSPECT FOR CRIMINAL DEFAMATION & CYBERSTALKING.

“Following a petition filed by a law firm, operatives of the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime arrested one Idowu Smart Emmanuel, a native of Ijebu Igbo, Ogun State, for criminal defamation, cyberstalking, cyberbullying, and falsehood against Abdulazeez Adeshina Fashola (A.K.A Naira Marley).

“Investigations revealed that the suspect, using his Instagram handle @lilsmart_ , falsely alleged that he was abducted, assaulted, and robbed of $300, further claiming that Naira Marley had bribed all police officers in Lagos and was involved in credit card fraud.

“The suspect later admitted in writing that these allegations were false and without evidence to prove his claim.

“On January 28, 2025, he was apprehended at his residence in Megamound Estate, Ajah, Lagos, and the exhibits involved in this crime were recovered,” the statement reads.

KanyiDaily had reported how Lil Smart accused singer Zinoleesky, Naira Marley, and others, claiming they kidnapped and assaulted him.