Naira Marley Breaks Silence on Mohbad’s Death: “Arrest Everybody Involved”

Nearly two years after the tragic passing of fast-rising Nigerian singer Mohbad (Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba), the controversy surrounding his death has resurfaced. This time, it comes from a long-awaited YouTube video by Naira Marley, his former label boss, who has finally spoken in detail after years of silence.

In the 30-minute video titled “My Side of the Story”, Marley insists on his innocence, calls for a fresh police investigation, and sheds light on several controversies that have trailed Mohbad’s career and estate since his death.

Mohbad’s Struggles Before His Death

Mohbad died on September 12, 2023, under circumstances that sparked national outrage, candlelight processions, and calls for justice. His strained relationship with Naira Marley had long been public: in October 2022, Mohbad accused Marley of assault and intimidation, alleging that he was beaten after requesting a new manager.

Months before his death, Mohbad filed a police petition alleging harassment from industry figures, including Marley’s associate, Sam Larry. Though Marley was not directly named in that petition, the tension between the artists was undeniable.

These struggles, coupled with claims of exploitation and lack of proper management, painted a picture of a young artist battling not just external pressures but also instability within his professional circle.

The Estate Dispute: Royalties Paid into Wife’s Mother’s Account

One of the most startling revelations that came to light after Mohbad’s death is the unusual management of his royalties. Reports suggest that Mohbad’s music earnings were being paid into his wife’s mother’s account, a practice many have described as unprofessional and troubling.

This arrangement has fueled debate about how vulnerable young artists in Nigeria are when it comes to contracts, financial literacy, and proper estate planning. For fans and industry watchers, it raised serious questions about who truly controlled Mohbad’s finances while he was alive and who should legally benefit after his death.

Naira Marley, in his video, stressed that he has not touched Mohbad’s estate. He revealed that the funds remain intact and are being overseen by a trusted associate, Amali, until the courts or Mohbad’s family officially appoint a beneficiary.

Marley’s Defense: Being out of the Country and Wrongly Accused

Marley used the video to firmly reject allegations of his involvement. He explained that he was not even in Nigeria at the time of Mohbad’s death, a fact he says is verifiable.

He admitted that when he first heard news of the singer’s passing, he thought it was another industry rumor.

“At first, I thought it was one of those rumors Mohbad himself might even want to spin to blow again. Until I started seeing posts everywhere accusing me directly of killing him.” The artist explained.

The artist also recounted his detention at Panti Prison in Yaba, where he says he spent nearly two months despite presenting evidence to support his innocence.

“Arrest Everybody” – Marley’s Call for Fresh Investigation

In perhaps the boldest part of his video, Marley urged the Nigerian Police to reopen the investigation into Mohbad’s death and to extend their net widely.

“If you ask me, I would tell the police to arrest everybody. Everybody who was in there when it happened. Let the truth come out.”

For Marley, reopening the case is not just about clearing his name but about ensuring that Mohbad’s family, fans, and the industry finally get closure.

Public Reaction and Ongoing Debate

As expected, Marley’s video has generated heated reactions across social media. While some fans have welcomed his decision to finally speak up and his call for a new investigation, others remain skeptical, pointing to the history of conflict between him and Mohbad.

The revelation about Mohbad’s royalties being funneled through his wife’s mother’s account has also added a new layer of controversy, sparking debates on accountability in the Nigerian music industry.

For many Nigerians, the lingering question remains: who should be held responsible for Mohbad’s untimely death, and when will the full truth come to light?