Former Marlian Music signee, Lil Smart, has been taken into police custody over allegations of making false claims against his former boss, Naira Marley.

Authorities have charged him with criminal defamation, cyberstalking, cyberbullying, and disseminating false information.

His arrest stems from a series of accusations he posted on Instagram in December 2024, where he alleged that Naira Marley and fellow artist Zinoleesky had attempted to kidnap him.

In the now-viral post, Lil Smart claimed that if anything happened to him, Naira Marley should be held accountable. He further accused the musician of bribing police officers in Lagos, engaging in credit card fraud, and stealing $300 from him.

However, in an official statement released on Thursday, February 6, police authorities confirmed that Lil Smart later admitted in writing that his claims were fabricated and lacked any supporting evidence.

The arrest followed a petition from Naira Marley’s legal team, prompting an investigation by the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Unit. Officers detained Lil Smart on January 28, 2025, at his residence in Megamound Estate, Ajah, Lagos, where they reportedly retrieved evidence related to the case.

Law enforcement officials have cautioned against making false allegations, stressing that such actions could have far-reaching consequences, including eroding public trust in the justice system.

Lil Smart’s accusations had previously sparked intense debate online, with some social media users sympathizing with him while others demanded proof of his claims against Naira Marley and Zinoleesky.