The 12th of September marks a great loss for the Nigerian music industry. It was the day Mohbad, Ilerioluwa Aloba, reportedly died three years ago while receiving unlicensed treatment in Lagos. Sadly, three years later, and the controversy surrounding how he died is still debated by the aggrieved families involved. 

Mohbad is known for hits like Peace, Sorry, Feel Good, and KPK(Ko Po Ke), which would go on to be nominated multiple times for the 2022 The Headies Awards, among other notable awards. His musical prowess is his ability to tap into different genres like hip-hop, street-pop, Afrobeats, Amapiano, and Afropop and translate these genres into songs that resonated with thousands. He was also nominated for Best Street-Hop Artist by The Headies Awards in 2023, the very year he passed away. 

The 27-year-old singer had built a fanbase with his freestyle videos before breaking into the scene with a debut album called, Light EP. One of his popular songs, Ponmo, which features Lil Kesh and Naira Marley was part of this album. His collaborations with other artists went from Davido to Small Doctor, Zlatan to Oladips, and many more. 

Perhaps one of the biggest controversies when he was alive was his 2022 split from his then label, Marlian Records, headed by street-pop maverick, Naira Marley. Mohbad alleged mistreatment and assault from Naira Marley, as well as his then manager, and industry socialite Samson Balogun, popularly known as Sam Larry. However, these cases were not addressed for many reasons; prior to his death Mohbad hadn't followed up with the police over these allegations, majority of the parties involved distanced themselves from the reported crimes, while others filed a defamation suit. 

Justice delayed or dignity denied? 

Also, Mohbad’s death has been marked by public discourse of which his wife, Omowunmi and his father, Joseph Aloba, are positioned in the centre. He remains unburied under divisive paternity claims and unresolved DNA tests. 

Many of his fans are calling for justice over his death as the investigation has been inconclusive, entering a third year with no closure or any end in sight. 

A Nigerian tabloid called Leadership Newspapers spoke to ‎a civil rights advocate, Kunle Faboyade, ‎who commented on Mohbad’s body being held without a forthcoming burial that "justice delayed is dignity denied." 

Bella Shmurda, a colleague of his and fellow collaborator who has made a tribute song called My Brother and also released a R2 Sept 12 EP dedicated to the late singer, posted a three year tribute on X (Formerly Twitter) saying, "Woe to Evildoers. Keep resting Imole!". 

Fans and loved ones alike are still calling on the authorities to conclude investigations on his case so he can be laid to rest.  

Cover Credit: Spotify

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