A Lagos State Magistrate Court in Sabo, Yaba, has officially cleared Nigerian singer Abdulazeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, along with music promoter Samson Balogun Eletu (Sam Larry) and Owodunni Ibrahim (Primeboy) of any involvement in the death of singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, widely recognized as Mohbad.
In delivering her judgment on Tuesday, Magistrate Ejiro Kubenje referenced legal counsel from the Lagos State Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP), which affirmed that there was no case to answer against the three men concerning Mohbad’s passing.
Also exonerated was Mohbad’s former manager, Opere Babatunde, who had initially been linked to the case.
However, the DPP recommended the prosecution of Feyisayo Ogedengbe, an auxiliary nurse who administered treatment to Mohbad before his death, alongside Ayobami Sadiq, one of the late singer’s close associates. The duo will face legal proceedings for reckless and negligent acts, as outlined under Section 251 (e) of the Lagos State Criminal Law, 2015. Their trial is set to proceed at the Magistrate Court.
Mohbad’s death on September 12, 2023, under unclear circumstances, triggered public outrage and widespread suspicions of foul play. Calls for justice intensified as social media was flooded with past videos and testimonies alleging harassment and intimidation by Naira Marley, Sam Larry, and other associates.
The controversy surrounding his passing led to nationwide protests, with fans demanding accountability from those believed to have played a role in his struggles. The Lagos State Police Command subsequently took Naira Marley, Sam Larry, Primeboy, and others into custody while awaiting autopsy results to determine the exact cause of death.
Despite the recent ruling clearing them of wrongdoing, debates persist over whether justice is truly being served. The decision to proceed with charges only against the nurse and Mohbad’s friend has reignited discussions, with some questioning if key figures have been unfairly shielded from accountability.
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