Reggae giant Buju Banton is facing a wave of criticism after taking to social media to share his controversial claim that the wearing of masks offers no protection for the coronavirus.

In a string of videos posted to his Instagram account of Wednesday evening, Banton, born Mark Myrie, condemned “intellectual fools” who he accused of intentionally misleading the public regarding the threat of the virus. 

“Well someone sight I and ask I if everything alright. I tell the bredrin ‘No; everything nuh alright and everything can’t alright. We want done with this mask wearing f**** inna Jamaica,” the Grammy winning singer said, going against health guidelines provided by the Jamaican government.

“Who fi dead ago dead and who nah go dead haffi just live,'”  he added. 

“Jamaican people need to wake up and mi done with the f%¥#, Jamaican people need to wake up! Mi nah wear no mask. Mask nuh mek fi man.” Banton claimed.

The video clips attracted instant criticism from fans, who commented their disapproval of the Jamaican icon’s sentiments. 

Among those disagreeing with the statement was Banton’s own daughter, Jodian Myrie, who tweeted on Wednesday evening:  “Let us all as Jamaicans play our part in flattening this curve by continuing to wear our masks and practicing social distancing! Follow the protocols set in place to protect not only your life, but the lives of your loved ones.” 

On the other hand, the artiste did manage to yield some who shared his views, as one fan commented: “The people have been sheepled but please continue to speak to them.”

To date, Jamaica has recorded over 8,000 cases of COVID-19 and 174 deaths.