Popular Nigerian singer Naira Marley has denied any involvement in the death of his former signee, Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad. The singer testified virtually on Friday before a magistrate court in Ikorodu during a Coroner’s inquest investigating the circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s death.
Addressing the court, Naira Marley explained that Mohbad was signed to his record label, Marlian Records, for a four-album deal. However, the late singer left the label due to ongoing disputes with his manager, Opere Babatunde, before completing the contract.
Dismissing allegations of threats or harassment, Naira Marley cited a police report that cleared him of any wrongdoing. He described accusations of maltreatment as “mere imagination” and insisted he never harmed or threatened the late singer.
When questioned about a viral video in which Mohbad stated that Naira Marley and the Marlian crew should be held responsible if anything happened to him, the artist claimed that Mohbad and his parents later apologized for the statement, attributing it to drug influence.
The singer further stated that he had not seen Mohbad for a year before his death and was not even in Nigeria at the time of the tragic incident.
Lawyer Disputes Marley’s Claims
However, Oluwasanmi Falade, Mohbad’s lawyer, contradicted Naira Marley’s testimony. He confirmed that there was an ongoing dispute between the late singer and Marlian Records regarding unpaid royalties. According to Falade, despite multiple letters sent to the label demanding payment, there was never a response.
Falade also recounted an attack on Mohbad at Lekki Beach, allegedly orchestrated by music promoter Sam Larry. He revealed that Mohbad had reported the incident to the Force Headquarters, which unsuccessfully attempted to arrest Sam Larry twice.
Coroner Summons Sam Larry, Requests Autopsy Report
After hearing the testimonies, Magistrate Adedayo Shotobi summoned Sam Larry to appear before the court on the next adjourned date, April 11. The coroner also instructed that Mohbad’s driver be located and summoned to testify.
Additionally, the court directed the pathologist who conducted an independent autopsy on Mohbad’s remains to submit his findings to the Chief Coroner before the next hearing.
The inquest into Mohbad’s death continues, with more witnesses expected to provide clarity on the events leading up to his tragic passing.
