MORE than a year after the sudden and tragic death of Nigerian music sensation, Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, the circumstances surrounding his passing remain a subject of intense debate, legal proceedings and family disputes. Despite forensic investigations, arrests and court trials, the case continues to generate more questions than answers.
On September 12, 2023, the Nigerian music industry was rocked by the shocking news of Mohbad’s death at the age of 27. Reports indicate that two days before his passing, Mohbad sustained an injury following an altercation with a friend. In what seemed like routine medical care, an auxiliary nurse administered a tetanus injection to him. However, shortly after receiving the injection, the artist reportedly collapsed and was rushed to the hospital, where he was declared dead on arrival.
The manner of his death led to immediate speculation, particularly due to his well-documented conflicts with his former record label, Marlian Music, owned by Azeez Fashola, better known as Naira Marley. His past allegations of bullying and intimidation against members of the label fuelled suspicions that his death might not have been accidental.
The Autopsy and Long Wait for Answers
Public outcry and pressure from fans and industry stakeholders led to the exhumation of Mohbad’s body on September 21, 2023, for an autopsy. The initial report indicated moderate to severe decomposition of organs, complicating efforts to determine the exact cause of death. A toxicology test was ordered to rule out poisoning, overdose, or any adverse reaction to the injection he received.
However, it wasn’t until June 2024 – almost nine months later – that a final autopsy report suggested that Mohbad’s death could have been due to a “possible drug reaction.” Yet, the pathologist in charge of the examination admitted that decomposition had affected the findings, leaving the official cause of death inconclusive.
Reacting to this, the late singer’s family rejected the autopsy results and demanded an independent post-mortem examination. “We are not satisfied with the outcome of the autopsy,” said his father, Joseph Aloba, emphasising the need for a more thorough investigation.
Court Acquittals and Legal Drama
As part of the investigation, several individuals, including Naira Marley, socialite Balogun Eletu (also known as Sam Larry) and Mohbad’s close associate, Owodunni Ibrahim (Primeboy), were arrested and detained. The trio faced accusations of assault and were suspected of having a hand in the singer’s untimely demise.
However, in February 2025, a Lagos Magistrate Court acquitted them of any involvement in Mohbad’s death, citing a lack of substantial evidence. The Department of Public Prosecution (DPP), after reviewing the case, concluded that the charges could not hold in court.
Following his acquittal, Naira Marley took to social media to express his frustration. “You let them tear me apart,” he wrote, stating that he was “broken but not destroyed.” He maintained that despite past disagreements, he and Mohbad had reconciled before the tragedy.
While Naira Marley and others walked free, the nurse who administered the tetanus injection remains under investigation and is expected to face trial.
Family Disputes and the Battle Over Mohbad’s Legacy
Beyond the legal battles, another controversy has emerged within Mohbad’s family. His father has publicly criticised his late son’s widow, Wunmi, for allegedly exposing their five-month-old child, Liam, to an “unsafe environment” by taking him to a show. Aloba has threatened legal action, further complicating an already tense family dynamic.
This is not the first time Mohbad’s family has been at odds since his passing. Disputes over his estate, music royalties, and custody of his son have played out in the media, overshadowing efforts to secure justice for the late singer.
A Case Far from Over
Despite the court ruling and the autopsy report, many Nigerians remain unconvinced that the true cause of Mohbad’s death has been uncovered. His case has become emblematic of larger issues in the Nigerian entertainment industry – ranging from mental health struggles to disputes over artist welfare and the need for stronger legal protection.
For now, while Mohbad’s music continues to resonate with his fans, the unanswered questions surrounding his death linger. Whether the legal system will provide closure or if new evidence will emerge remains uncertain. What is clear, however, is that the fight for justice in Mohbad’s case is far from over.
