7 Things That has Happened 1 Year After Mohbad’s Death

One year ago today, on September 12, 2023, Nigeria was shaken by the untimely death of popular street pop star Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, better known as Mohbad. 

At just 27 years old, his passing came as a devastating shock to his fans and the entire nation, casting a somber shadow over the music industry and leaving many questions unanswered. 

The police reported that Mohbad was given injections by an unqualified nurse named Feyisayo Ogedengbe. The injections, which included tetanus toxoid, paracetamol, and the antibiotic Cetrazone, caused immediate adverse reactions such as vomiting, goosebumps, and convulsions, leading to his death. 

He was rushed to Perez Medcare Hospital but was declared dead on arrival, as confirmed by the medical facility. As we mark the first anniversary of Mohbad’s death, here are some significant things that have unfolded since that tragic day.

A hasty burial sparks confusion

The rapid burial of Mohbad, just a day after his death, generated widespread confusion and speculation. Given that Mohbad was not a Muslim, his swift interment in Ikorodu, Lagos State, puzzled many. 

His father, Joseph Aloba, later explained that the quick burial was due to the young age of his son and the fact that the burial site was one of the few properties Mohbad owned. This explanation, however, did little to quell the public’s concerns and conspiracy theories.

Calls for investigations and autopsy

In the wake of Mohbad’s sudden death, there was a massive outcry from the public demanding a thorough investigation. Many Nigerians were perplexed by the sudden nature of his death, especially after he had appeared healthy at a concert just days before. 

This led to a social media campaign urging the authorities to conduct an autopsy to determine the cause of his death. The police responded by exhuming Mohbad’s body for an official autopsy, though the results would not be as conclusive as many had hoped.

Revelations and allegations against Naira Marley and Sam Larry

In the months following Mohbad’s death, disturbing videos surfaced showing the singer’s alleged mistreatment at the hands of his former record label, Naira Marley, and his associate, Sam Larry. 

These videos, coupled with Mohbad’s own statements accusing Marley of potential wrongdoing, led to a public outcry for their arrest. Although Marley and Larry initially avoided Nigeria, they eventually returned to assist with the investigation. Both were detained and questioned, but their involvement remains part of an ongoing inquiry.

A memorable tribute

Despite the controversies surrounding his death, Mohbad’s memory was honored in a way befitting his legacy. 

A candlelight procession and tribute concert were held on September 21, 2023, starting from Lekki Phase One and concluding at Muri Okunola Park in Victoria Island. The event drew hundreds of fans and featured performances from prominent artists like Falz and Davido, celebrating Mohbad’s life and career.

How the investigation unfolds

The police investigation into Mohbad’s death revealed a complex web of suspects and allegations. A total of 26 individuals, including members of Mohbad’s circle and medical personnel, were questioned. 

The nurse who administered the injections, Feyisayo Ogedengbe, was named a prime suspect but has not yet been formally charged. Additionally, Mohbad’s friends and associates were scrutinized for their roles in his final days, adding further layers to the case.

Paternity disputes

In the aftermath of Mohbad’s death, a legal dispute emerged between his widow, Wunmi, and his father over the paternity of Mohbad’s son, Liam. Joseph Aloba demanded a DNA test to confirm Liam’s parentage, leading to a series of legal battles and failed attempts to serve the necessary notices. 

This added another dimension of contention to an already tragic situation, further complicating the family’s grieving process.

Uncertain Cause of Death

In May 2024, Prof. Shokunle Shoyemi, the pathologist responsible for the autopsy, revealed that the cause of Mohbad’s death remained ‘uncertain’ due to the advanced state of decomposition of his body. 

Despite extensive efforts, the condition of the remains made a conclusive determination impossible, leaving many questions unresolved and fueling continued speculation and dissatisfaction among his fans and family.