Nigerian rapper Jeremiah Chukwuebuka Ani, better known as Jeriq, has opened up about how music became his lifeline and kept him away from a life of crime.

Speaking in an honest interview with YouTuber The Smallie, the Enugu-born rapper revealed that he had several encounters with law enforcement in the past due to his involvement in street vices. According to him, the scars on his hands and legs are reminders of his past, caused by handcuffs during multiple arrests by the police and anti-cult units.

Jeriq admitted that without music, his story might have taken a darker turn.

“If not for music, I would probably be in prison by now,” he said, expressing gratitude for the career that helped him change direction.

The rapper also reflected on his early struggles in Lagos, where he initially found it difficult to connect with established artistes or secure collaborations because he was still an upcoming act.

His breakthrough came in 2021 when he returned to the city and successfully worked with Dremo on a joint EP titled *East and West*, which helped boost his career.

Despite his past, Jeriq remains confident about his future, stating that rapping in his mother tongue, Igbo, will eventually earn him international recognition.

From the streets to the studio, Jeriq’s journey proves that passion can rewrite destiny.