Controversial Nigerian rapper, Azeez Fashola, better known as Naira Marley, has spoken extensively about the tragic death of his former signee, Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba (Mohbad), in a two-hour video released on YouTube. In the documentary-style broadcast, Naira Marley speaks out on Mohbad’s death, addressing accusations, financial disputes, and his position on the ongoing investigation.
Mohbad, popularly known for hits like KPK and Ask About Me, died on September 12, 2023, at just 27 years old. His death sparked outrage, protests, and widespread allegations against Naira Marley and his close associate, Sam Larry, both of whom were detained for two months in 2023 before being released.
Naira Marley Denies Involvement in Mohbad’s Death
In the video, the rapper firmly denied all claims of foul play, insisting that he never bullied, harmed, or had a hand in Mohbad’s death. He maintained that those who were around the singer 24 to 48 hours before his collapse should have been the primary focus of the police investigation.
“I’ve never sent anyone to bully him. I was in Amsterdam on the day he died,” Naira Marley explained, stressing that internet rumors worsened public perception against him.
He went further to challenge the police to re-arrest him, Sam Larry, and everyone previously accused, urging that the case be reopened and handled by a trustworthy officer. According to him, a conspiracy to keep him behind bars had clouded earlier investigations.
Allegations of Drug Use and Mental Struggles
Naira Marley also opened up about Mohbad’s personal struggles, revealing that the late artist once admitted to using “Ice,” a crack-like substance, to cope with stress. He claimed he tried to advise and support Mohbad through medical checks and paid treatments, but the young singer often battled anxiety and depression.
The rapper recounted how Mohbad once attempted suicide in March 2022, an incident that led him to involve the singer’s parents and girlfriend in intervention efforts.
Transparency Over Royalties
One of the central issues after Mohbad’s death has been the fate of his royalties. Naira Marley speaks out on Mohbad’s death by clarifying that all earnings from his music are intact and available for rightful allocation.
He explained that Mohbad independently chose his manager in 2020, and their business structure was always transparent, operating on a 50-50 revenue split. However, he alleged that in December 2022, Mohbad withdrew $72,000 from a digital streaming partner without authorization.
“We had to withhold some royalties until the matter was settled. But the funds remain safe. Marlian Music has agreed with his lawyer to release all royalties to whichever family member or court-appointed representative is chosen,” he said.
Court Rulings and the Nurse’s Role
The Lagos State Coroner’s Court previously ruled out foul play, instead highlighting medical negligence as the cause of Mohbad’s death. An auxiliary nurse, Feyisayo Ogedengbe, who administered an injection without a doctor’s prescription, has since been recommended for prosecution.
Despite this ruling, Naira Marley insists the case should not be closed until every allegation is fully tested under transparent investigation.
Public Reaction and Ongoing Debate
The fresh video has once again stirred debate among fans, industry stakeholders, and the wider Nigerian public. Many still believe justice for Mohbad is incomplete, while others see Naira Marley’s call for the police to reopen the case as a bold step toward clearing his name.
For now, the tragedy of Mohbad’s untimely death remains unresolved in the hearts of many Nigerians. As Naira Marley speaks out on Mohbad’s death, the focus has shifted to whether law enforcement will take up his call to revisit the case and bring closure to one of the most controversial losses in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
