Rema reveals fear of SARS forced him to place Army friend in back seat because he was on dread

Nigerian singer Rema has revealed how the fear of SARS influenced decisions during the shooting of one of his freestyle videos.

The “Calm Down” star shared that he positioned his Army friend in the back seat of his car for safety reasons.

He explained that he was cautious because he was on dread.

I had to place my Army friend at the back seat of my car

In a social media post, Rema said,

“The fear of SARS made me put my Army friend at the back seat of my car in my freestyle video because I’m on dread,”

This highlights the lengths artists sometimes go to navigate real-life risks while producing content.

His candid revelation struck a chord with fans, sparking widespread discussion online about the impact of SARS on Nigerian youths and creatives.

Social media reactions

Social media users shared personal experiences and reflections, underlining the lingering trauma caused by SARS.

Some praised Rema for speaking out, while others recounted close encounters and the lasting psychological toll of past harassment.

@kvngobi: “The amount of PTSD the youths go through in this country”

@Seyibuzz: “He’s basically saying he had to play it safe because of the SARS fear—putting his Army friend in the back just to show he’s careful, not reckless. Shows how even artists have to navigate real-life risks while creating content.”

@ToluwalaseHoluwabassey: “Years ago, SARS arrested my friend because he had too many photos of Cristiano Ronaldo”

@iam_boym: “I went through severe PTSD after wetin my eyes see for their hands for ph city e come make me be like person wey no JAA”

@iam_joshoodz: “So even them dey feel am.”

Watch the video below…

“The fear of SARS made me to put my Army friend at the back seat of my car in my freestyle video because I’m on dread”

– Rema 😂 pic.twitter.com/AazwK5gnhb

— OLAMIDE 🌸💖 (@Olamide0fficial) December 11, 2025