Nigerian music artist and Marlian Records founder, Azeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, has released a detailed video statement addressing the tragic death of his former signee, Ilerioluwa Aloba, known as Mohbad. The statement comes nearly two years after Mohbad’s passing on September 12, 2023, which sparked widespread public outrage and speculation.
In the video, Naira Marley disclosed that he first became aware of Mohbad’s drug use in 2020, specifically referencing the substance known as “Ice.” Rather than penalize the young artist, Marley said he attempted to support him through his struggles, including a reported suicide attempt in March 2022.
Marley also recounted the controversial NDLEA raid in February 2022, during which Mohbad was detained. He claimed that Mohbad’s subsequent Instagram live video—where accusations were made—was recorded under duress during a panic attack.
Addressing the circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s final hours, Marley expressed frustration over the direction of the investigation. “If we were in a sane country, the police would have arrested everyone who was with him 24 to 48 hours before he died,” he stated, emphasizing that he was not in Nigeria at the time of Mohbad’s death and had voluntarily returned to assist with the investigation.
Despite being cleared of any involvement by a Magistrate’s Court in February 2024, Marley was detained for two months upon his return to Nigeria. He criticized the authorities for what he described as unjust treatment and a failure to focus on the individuals who were physically present with Mohbad in his final days.
The Coroner’s Court later found that auxiliary nurse Feyisayo Ogedengbe acted with gross negligence by administering an injection without a doctor’s prescription, ruling out foul play or homicide.