By Othello Sarweh Nimely
Former Liberian warlord Joshua Milton Blayi, widely known as “General Butt Naked,” has proffered what he believes will mitigate Liberia’s drug crisis, urging government to adopt a rehabilitation-centered approach to addressing the crisis.
He contends that treatment and reintegration are more effective method.
Speaking in an interview on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, Blayi acknowledged that Liberia is facing a serious drug problem but stressed that rescuing those already addicted should be a national priority.
According to him, the government should invest more resources in rehabilitating drug users rather than focusing solely on arrests and seizures.
“If those already affected are rehabilitated and successfully reintegrated into society, it will discourage others from using drugs,” Blayi said. “People will see that there is hope for recovery and a better life.”
He further recommended that the government create employment opportunities for individuals who complete rehabilitation programs, saying meaningful jobs would help prevent former drug users from returning while encouraging others struggling with addiction seek treatment.
Blayi praised the government’s recent successes in intercepting and confiscating illegal drugs, describing the operations as a significant milestone in Liberia’s fight against narcotics.
He also commended President Joseph Boakai’s decision to suspend senior security officials allegedly linked to the illegal drug trade, calling the move a demonstration of political will and commitment to combating drug trafficking.
The former warlord, who publicly supported the ruling Unity Party during the 2023 presidential elections, claimed he opposed the previous administration of former President George Weah because, according to him, it failed to adequately address the country’s drug crisis. He alleged that drug activities were promoted during that period.
Blayi also appealed to Liberia’s international partners to provide the country’s security agencies with modern technology and equipment to strengthen efforts to detect and intercept illegal drugs entering the country.
He said advanced surveillance and intelligence tools would significantly improve the ability of law enforcement to combat cross-border drug trafficking and dismantle trafficking networks.
Blayi currently heads the Journey Against Violence, an organization that rehabilitates individuals affected by drug addiction. He used the interview to appeal for increased government support.
According to him, the organization requires approximately US$21,000 every three weeks to provide food, counseling, medical care, vocational training, and other essential services for about 250 people undergoing rehabilitation.
He urged the government to assist the organization with funding, arguing that strengthening rehabilitation centers across Liberia would complement ongoing law enforcement efforts and provide long-term solutions to the country’s drug crisis.
Blayi maintained that while arrests and drug seizures remain important, lasting success will depend on giving recovering addicts the opportunity to rebuild their lives and become productive members of society.
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