The Lagos State Government has appointed controversial social media personality, Ayomiposi Oluwadahunsi, popularly known as ‘Mandy Kiss’, as a brand ambassador for its campaign against drug and substance abuse.
The appointment was announced on Tuesday by the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, during an event organised by the Lagos State Kick Against Drug and Substance Abuse (LASKADA).
Speaking at the event, Ogunlende described drug abuse as a pressing social crisis, stressing the need for collaboration with influencers who command large followership on social media.
He said, “Drugs are a pandemic that is hitting our streets, it is a pandemic that is hitting our society, it is a pandemic that is hitting our community.
“The government cannot fight it alone. We must work in collaboration with those that can reach as many people as possible, and we know Mandy Kiss has a large followership, 402,000. We’ve had conversations and we’re trying to do things differently.”
The Commissioner formally conferred the ambassadorship on the social media influencer, adding: “With the powers conferred on me, I make her one of our brand ambassadors. So, say no to drugs. Say what? Say no to drugs.”
The appointment has generated mixed reactions, especially as it comes on the heels of a viral controversy involving Mandy Kiss. Recently, she announced plans to stage a record marathon sex act with 100 men in a single day as a Guinness World Record (GWR) attempt in Ikorodu, Lagos State.
The Guinness World Records swiftly distanced itself from such stunt, clarifying that it does not monitor or endorse sexual activity as a record category. Mandy Kiss later claimed the announcement was a joke, but it sparked public outrage, with calls on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to order her arrest.
Ogunlende, however, urged Lagosians to look beyond her past and focus on the message of the campaign.
“Everybody has a past, nobody’s perfect, but again, as a brand ambassador to Lagos State Kicks Against Drug Abuse, we hope Mandy Kiss will be able to reach the nooks and crannies of Lagos to assist us in fighting this pandemic,” he said.
The Commissioner did not disclose details of her specific duties or upcoming campaigns.
LEADERSHIP reports that LASKADA is responsible for coordinating a multi-sectoral, evidence-based response to drug and substance abuse in Lagos through advocacy, public education, community engagement, policy influence, and research.
