In a shocking turn of events, Nigerian singer and rapper Naira Marley has finally broken his silence regarding the controversial death of his former label signee, Mohbad. The 27-year-old artist, whose real name is Ilerioluwa Aloba, passed away under mysterious circumstances earlier this week, leading to a wave of speculation and concern among fans and the music industry.
Mohbad was laid to rest in Ikorodu, Lagos State, on Wednesday, but questions surrounding the circumstances of his death remain unanswered. However, Naira Marley took to his Instagram account on Friday to express his profound grief and sorrow over the loss of his colleague.
In the heartfelt statement, the Marlian Record label boss stated, “I am heartbroken by Mohbad’s death. He will be truly missed.” Despite any past disagreements, Naira Marley made it clear that he harboured no ill will towards Mohbad and vehemently denied any involvement in the circumstances leading to his passing.
Furthermore, Naira Marley extended his condolences to Mohbad’s grieving family and called for a thorough investigation into the young artist’s untimely death. The call for an inquiry was echoed by law enforcement authorities.
Lagos State Police Ready to Unravel the Mystery
The Lagos State police spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin, on Thursday, emphasized the commitment of law enforcement agencies to unravel the circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s shocking demise. Appearing on Daddy Freeze’s Instagram live show alongside singer and producer Samkelf, Mr Hundeyin assured the public that they are prepared to go the extra mile to seek answers in this puzzling case.
(VIDEO) Mohbad: Sanwo-Olu, Oba Of Elegushi Denied Affiliations With Sam Larry, Naira Marley — Lagos PPRO
— Punch Newspapers (@MobilePunch) September 18, 2023
The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, has said the state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and the monarch of the Ikate-Elegushi Kingdom in Lagos… pic.twitter.com/OWtHZMUfhZ
“The Force PRO issued a statement this evening saying an investigation would commence. And that is what we are going to do. If need be, the body would be exhumed. It’s not too late. The body can be exhumed. An autopsy can be performed. The [Force PRO’s] statement also states that people should bring whatever information they have to the Commissioner of Police in Lagos State.
Video: Official investigation begins to unravel the circumstances behind the death of Popular Nigerian Afrobeats act, Mohbad. pic.twitter.com/qrIC8xLVyh
— Pulse Nigeria (@PulseNigeria247) September 18, 2023
“That is because we don’t want to do hierarchy anymore. Bring it to Force headquarters to Lagos State command; it doesn’t matter. We are going to harmonize it within ourselves and ensure that justice is done,” the police spokesman said while fielding questions from Daddy Freeze.
This statement follows a press release by the Nigerian Police, reaffirming their unwavering commitment to conducting a meticulous investigation into Mohbad’s mysterious death. In response to allegations and public outcry, the police have made it clear that they are dedicated to uncovering the truth and ensuring justice is served.
Bella Shmurda Demands Justice for Mohbad
In a separate development, Nigerian singer Abiola Ahmed Akinbiyi, widely recognised as Bella Shmurda, has responded to the tragic passing of his fellow artist, Mohbad. Bella Shmurda, known for his heartfelt music, insisted that justice must prevail, whether through legal or other means.
Bella Shmurda expressed his grief and outrage on his social media handle, addressing the untimely death of his close friend, Mohbad. He stressed the urgency of the situation, urging authorities to take swift action to ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.
He wrote, “In the past few days, I have tried my best not to carry the phone and type anything, but Mohbad’s spirit won’t let me rest, knowing I’m the only one who can make his spirit calm by making those who made him live in fear and almost with nothing to feed on never also get rest, and he has started. Yes, I mean wahala just wan start like this I NO GO GREE, and I mean it. Samlarry and the whole Marlians music must be arrested, make all of us dey police, and if the Nigerian police too weak as a body to fish these people out, we will do it street, legal or illegal, any which way like this war don start.”
In another tweet, he further emphasised that the specific confraternity someone belonged to was inconsequential. He fervently called for an immediate and thorough investigation to identify and bring the culprits to justice.
“Pounds for pounds, flesh for flesh. Whether u be aiye oo, eiye oo, or sealords, whatever it may be, this boy sang for make us happy, jubilate, think, rejoice, supported even while he is in pains and living in fear. Now it’s our time to do our part for him. I want everyone with one voice to let get him justice, all hands on deck #justice for Mohbad, fish dem out legal or illegal,” he wrote.
In the past few days have tried my best not to carry phone nd type anything but Mohbad spirit won’t let me rest knowing I’m the only one make his spirit calm by making those of them who make him live in fear nd almost with nothing to feed on never also get rest nd he don start…
— Yxng Alhaji 💐 (@BellaShmurda) September 17, 2023
Bella Shmurda’s statements have generated extensive reactions from both individuals and comments expressing support for his demand for justice.
@OGBdeyforyou commented, “Illegal ti wa okay, leave legal for GOD”.
@communicator commented, “Naira Marley, Sam Larry, and others deIt with Mohbad illegally… but, the Iegally always take too long and most times, no justice. This is saddening”.
@BolanleCole also commented, “I respect your boldness Bella, you are a friend indeed. We are with you on this. Justice must be served”.
