Jericho and NSK squash “beef” …as LifeLine/ChildLine Namibia issues public apology

Jericho and NSK squash “beef” …as LifeLine/ChildLine Namibia issues public apology

Namibian hip-hop artist Jericho Jerome Gawanab and radio personality Denzel Leroy “NSK” //Naobeb have officially ended their long-standing feud following a reconciliation facilitated by LifeLine/ChildLine Namibia, which has also issued a public apology for its role in escalating tensions between the two public figures.

The reconciliation took place recently at the LifeLine/ChildLine head office in Windhoek, where both artists shared emotional reflections and expressed mutual forgiveness. 

The non-governmental organisation used the occasion to publicly acknowledge its part in the conflict.

In a statement, LifeLine/ChildLine Namibia Director Nicolette Bessinger said the organisation “Wholeheartedly apologises to NSK and Jericho for our role in the recent events surrounding our 45th anniversary celebrations.” Bessinger added that the charity’s actions had “unintentionally escalated a longstanding and sensitive matter, causing unnecessary distress and reputational harm.”

Guided by the organisation’s principles of accountability and healing, Bessinger said LifeLine/ChildLine had reached out to both parties privately and offered to mediate a constructive dialogue between them. 

“We commend both individuals for their commitment to positive growth and social upliftment,” she said.

NSK welcomed the apology, describing it as “rare and commendable” for an organisation to take such accountability. “Personally, I do accept the apology and appreciate it from the bottom of my heart,” he said.

“Lifeline/ChildLine brought Jericho and me together in one room for a brutally honest three-hour conversation. It was difficult but positive. 

I’ve owned up to my wrongs and apologised. It feels like a great weight has been lifted off my shoulders,” said NSK.

Jericho also expressed remorse, saying he was now in a different phase of his life. “I just want to say to my brother NSK that I’m deeply sorry for my part in the feud,” he said.

“I’m in a positive space now. As the ambassador of the 4×4 Initiative, I need to be a good role model to young people,” said Jericho.

Local actor and Ma|gaisa artist Mervin Claasen, who attended the event, praised the reconciliation. 

“In this world, we need more brothers than enemies. It’s inspiring to see two men putting their differences aside and focusing on their shared vision,” he said.

-isipunga@nepc.com.na