Nigerian musician Azeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, has publicly addressed the controversy surrounding the death of his former signee, Mohbad (Ilerioluwa Aloba), who passed away on September 12, 2023, at the age of 27.
In a video released on YouTube early Wednesday, Naira Marley denied any involvement in Mohbad’s death or allegations of bullying, stating:
“I’ve never sent anybody to bully him.”
The video comes months after a Magistrate’s Court in Yaba, Lagos cleared Naira Marley, music promoter Sam Larry, Primeboy (Ibrahim Owodunni), and Mohbad’s former manager, Babatunde Opere, of any criminal responsibility in the case.
However, a Coroner’s Court in Ikorodu later recommended the prosecution of auxiliary nurse Feyisayo Ogedengbe for gross negligence in administering an injection to Mohbad without a doctor’s prescription.
In his video, Naira Marley recounted several incidents involving Mohbad, including drug use, mental health struggles, and financial disputes.
He claimed to have advised Mohbad against using substances like “Ice” and said he tried to support him with medical care and counseling.
“I wasn’t angry, I called him and advised him and told him about the danger. He said he got into it because of stress but said he would stay out of it.”
He also addressed rumors about Mohbad’s fear of hospitals, showing WhatsApp chats as evidence of medical visits. Regarding their business dealings, he said:
“Our business is plain… We did 50-50; this is the first time I’m saying it.”
Naira Marley detailed Mohbad’s suicide attempt in March 2022 and said he discussed the matter with the singer’s parents, who agreed he needed help.
He also mentioned a physical altercation between Mohbad and his manager, which led to accusations on social media.
“We suspect Mohbad had given his phone to someone to fabricate the story,” he said.
The singer revealed that Mohbad’s lawyer had formally requested to exit Marlian Music in October 2022, and that financial records were shared to ensure transparency.
He alleged that Mohbad withdrew $72,000 from a DSP partner, prompting the label to withhold royalty payments until the funds were returned.
Naira Marley said he was in Amsterdam at the time of Mohbad’s death and expressed frustration over being detained for two months upon returning to Nigeria to clear his name.
He concluded by stating that Marlian Music is ready to release Mohbad’s royalties to whoever is legally designated by the family or the court.
The video has reignited public discourse around the tragic death of Mohbad, with many still demanding full accountability and justice.
