The Nigerian music industry remains shaken as the Coroner’s inquest into the tragic death of Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, continues.
On Friday, popular artiste Naira Marley testified before a Magistrate Court in Ikorodu via virtual proceedings, addressing allegations concerning the late singer’s demise.
During his testimony, Naira Marley, whose real name is Azeez Fashola, stated that Mohbad had signed a contract with his record label, Marlian Records, to produce four albums.
However, he explained that the contract was never fulfilled due to ongoing disputes between Mohbad and his manager, Opere Babatunde.
Addressing accusations that he had threatened or mistreated Mohbad, Naira Marley firmly denied any wrongdoing.
He referenced a police report that, according to him, had already cleared him of any such claims.
Speaking on a viral video where Mohbad stated that Naira Marley and his crew should be held accountable if anything happened to him, the singer claimed that Mohbad and his family later apologized for the video, stating that it was recorded under the influence of drugs.
“The only issue he had was with Tunde, his manager. Their fight started from a group chat, which I still have the evidence with me. I tried to settle their differences, but it got out of hand to the extent that they got physical,” he explained.
Furthermore, Naira Marley stated that he had given Mohbad the option of changing his manager if that would make him more comfortable.
However, the disagreement between them escalated beyond expectations.
“I have never threatened Mohbad, neither did I bully him. Sam Larry is a friend to both me and Mohbad. I never instructed him to beat Mohbad. I never cheated him, neither did I exploit him,” he said.
Naira Marley also revealed that he opted for a virtual court appearance due to threats against his life.
“I requested a virtual hearing today because of my safety. I have received threats from people saying they will kill me if I ever show up at Ikorodu,” he disclosed.
Meanwhile, Mohbad’s lawyer, Oluwasanmi Falade, disputed some of Naira Marley’s statements.
He confirmed that a legal battle over unpaid royalties existed between Mohbad and Marlian Records.
Falade revealed that he had written several letters to Marlian Records demanding payment on Mohbad’s behalf, but he never received any response.
He added that the case had since been taken to the Federal High Court for legal resolution.
In addition, Falade testified that Mohbad had been physically attacked at Lekki Beach by music promoter Sam Larry.
He stated that Mohbad had reported the incident to the police and that the Force Headquarters had made two unsuccessful attempts to arrest Sam Larry.
Following the testimonies, Magistrate Adedayo Shotobi ordered Sam Larry to appear before the Coroner’s court on April 11.
The Coroner also issued a witness summons to Mohbad’s driver, who is expected to provide further testimony.
Furthermore, the court instructed the pathologist who conducted an independent autopsy on Mohbad to submit his findings to both the Coroner’s court and the Chief Coroner before the next hearing.
As the case progresses, fans and industry stakeholders continue to demand justice for Mohbad.
His death remains a painful reality, and many are eager for the truth to be uncovered.
