Okomfour Kwadee warns youth against deadly ‘Red’ drug

After years away from the public eye battling mental illness, Ghanaian Hiplife musician Okomfour Kwadee has made a return to the media space, appearing stable, composed and with a strong message for the youth.

In an interview with Kumawood actor Kwaku Manu, shared on social media on 11 August 2025, Kwadee urged young people to stay away from opioids, particularly a substance known on the streets as “Red” or “225”.

He described the pill as highly addictive and dangerous, warning that it offers no benefit and can even lead to death.

The musician admitted to experimenting with other stimulants in the past, which severely affected his health.

“Doctors have spoken against the intake of Red because if you take it, you can die from it. We have been in the system for some time now, and there is nothing I haven’t done. The Red, tramadol and other stimulants are of no benefit,” he said.

Kwadee also cautioned fellow musicians against using marijuana and other harmful substances, noting that foreign influences are contributing to destructive habits in Ghana’s creative industry.

He stressed that many artistes are blindly imitating foreign trends, turning drug use into a fashion statement.

“They should note that they can’t smoke forever because it’s not helpful,” he added.