LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA) – Nigerian music sensation, Naira Marley, has broken his silence following the tragic passing of his former artist, IleriOluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad.
The sudden death of Mohbad on Tuesday, September 12th, swiftly followed by his burial in the Ikorodu region of Lagos the next day, has ignited a wave of speculation and debate regarding the true cause of his death.
After being laid to rest, the remains of Mohbad were exhumed for an autopsy as part of an investigation conducted by the Lagos State Police Command to determine the true cause of his death.
The Lagos State Police Command provided confirmation last Thursday that the autopsy has been concluded, marking a significant milestone in the investigation.
Following the tragic death of Mohbad, Naira Marley has become the focus of intense scrutiny, as many individuals point fingers at him as the potential cause behind the untimely demise of the late singer, citing their previous fallout as a significant factor leading up to the tragic incident.
Moreover, the singer also faced allegations of running a cult within his record label and being involved in illicit drug activities.
In an official statement posted on his Instagram account on Tuesday, Naira Marley declared his willingness to cooperate with law enforcement authorities in uncovering the details surrounding the passing of his former protege, Mohbad.
In an explanation for his prolonged silence following Mohbad’s passing, he revealed that his intention was to avoid compromising the ongoing investigation conducted by government agencies.
He said, “In the last few days, there has been a lot of onslaught on my person and reputation globally over the death of my former signee. All manner of stories has been woven against me in respect of his untimely death. I have not only been in shock over the death of the deceased whom I considered to be my brother and member of our music family, but over the various lies spread and threats against me.
“Before I progress further, let me say that as it is traumatic for a lot of people to bear the reality of lleri’s death, so it is to me. May his gentle soul continue to rest in peace and may God grant his family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
”Permit me to categorically state that I have no hand in the death of llerioluwa, either directly or indirectly. It is not unusual in the industry, just like in several other industries to have family friction, even amongst blood relatives.
“Truly, we had our own share of misunderstandings whilst working together, but the disagreement between us was never to the extent being painted by some hirelings. It never degenerated to the extent of wishing each other death. Even at that, we were resolving our business disputes legally before he had passed.
“I have chosen not to say anything since due to being distraught over his death and in order not to jeopardize the investigation being carried out by the government agencies.
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“In addition, I have been out of the country since the 31st of August, 2023 and I’m yet to return. In light of the police invitation, I am making arrangements to return to the country to assist the investigation and give my version of the events. I am fully cooperating with the Police team and I certainly have no reason to be a fugitive when I have no hand in his death.
”I am certain that the culprit behind his death and has a vendetta against me and are fueling public opinions to have me lynched for reasons known to them. In due time the circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s death will be unveiled and the world will know the truth. This kind of scenario of attempting to set someone up is not novel in the industry as other great musicians have experienced the same and came out better and stronger. Mine will not be an exception as I am innocent of the accusations.
”Mohbad left the label in September 2022, the label accepted his departure. Marlian Music did not stop or interfere with his career or releases since and he has been with oneRPM. Legal efforts were made to reconcile his concerns regarding the work we had done together.
”The rumors regarding the label being a drug cartel are untrue. I am not a drug lord, neither do I Marley belong to any cult or fraternity. I’m dedicated to proving my innocence and I’m cooperating with the authorities to clear my name with sufficient evidence.
”Marlian Music is an independent label run by a small intimate team. We run a legitimate label that focuses on championing exceptional talent, breaking new acts and nurturing them.
”I will like to clearly state that I have never fought or attacked Mohbad. For the avoidance of doubt I have never instructed anyone, friend, known associates or fans to attack, bully or harass <Mohbad. With regards to the talent on the label, none of our artists ever fought or mistreated Mohbad.
”I share my deepest condolences to the family. Let’s be mindful as we seek justice to focus on supporting the police and authorities with relevant information and evidence surrounding his death so that those responsible will be apprehended. I am positive that at the end of the day. the truth will prevail and I shall be exonerated.
”My lawyers are already in touch with the police and government agencies and will support in every way necessary.
”Without a doubt I will honor his memory and I promise to do right by him and his family.
”Thank you.”