Oxlade Explains Why He Avoids Smoking and Hard Drugs

Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Ikuforiji Olaitan, popularly known as Oxlade, has revealed why he has chosen to stay away from smoking and hard drugs, crediting his family and religious upbringing for shaping his lifestyle choices.

The ‘Ku Lo Sa’ hitmaker spoke candidly about his personal discipline in an interview with gospel singer Tim Godfrey. Oxlade explained that his strong Christian foundation and musically inclined family influenced both his career and personal life.

“I don’t smoke. I don’t take drugs,” Oxlade stated. “I was a choir coordinator for every age group: children’s church, teen church, youth choir, and mass choir. All my life I have been in the choir.”

He shared that music has always been a central part of his family life. His grandmother is a deaconess and a talented singer, his grandfather was a multi-instrumentalist, and his mother could both sing and dance. He also has a pastor in his family, all of which shaped his values and appreciation for gospel music.

Oxlade emphasised that his gospel roots remain important to him. “My gospel music writing is actually the best. Gospel music is the best music,” he said, highlighting how his early church experiences gave him a strong sense of purpose and discipline.

Reflecting on his career, Oxlade credited God’s guidance for his rapid rise in the music industry. “Regardless of whichever perspective I am viewed, you should know that God is equally blessing me as much as he is blessing you. You can’t tour 40 cities with your debut album if God doesn’t want it to happen. As long as God is ordaining these steps and movements, there is really nothing for me to worry about.”

The singer’s remarks offer a glimpse into the personal principles that guide his life, showing how faith, family, and early musical training have helped him navigate fame while staying grounded and focused.