CITIZENS COMPASS —Two weeks after the death of the Nigerian singer, Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Marlian Record Label, Azeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, debunked involvement in the death.
Naira Marley disclosed this on his Instagram page on Tuesday, September 26, 2023.
He said all manner of stories had been peddled against him in respect of Mohbad’s death, adding that, “Permit me to categorically state that I have no hand in the death of Ilerioluwa, 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.”
While praying for the soul of the deceased to rest in peace, Naira Marley said, “As it is traumatic for a lot of people to bear the reality of lleri’s death, so it is to me.”
Recall that Mohbad died on Tuesday, September 12, 2023, at the age of 27 and was buried the following day.
The death had sparked controversies and protests as many Nigerians suspected foul play.
Lagos State Police Command have commenced investigation to unravel the cause of his death.
The Command has since exhumed the body and conducted an autopsy on him though the result is yet to be disclosed.
Mohbad’s remains were exhumed for an autopsy.
The Lagos State Police Command last Thursday confirmed the conclusion of the autopsy.
Spokesperson of the Command, Benjamin Hundeyin, disclosed this on his X formerly known as Twitter saying, “Mohbad’s corpse has been exhumed and medical experts have successfully concluded the autopsy on the corpse tonight. Our concern as the police is the outcome of the autopsy, as we’re expecting the result soon.”
In his post, Naira Marley said the reason for his being silent since the death of Mohbad was in order not to jeopardise the investigation being carried out by government agencies.
In addition, he noted, “I have been out of the country since the 31st of August, 2023 and I’m yet to return.”
Expressing his readiness to assist relevant agencies in the investigation process, Naira Marley added, “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 l have no hand in his death.
“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,” part of the statement read.
“Naira Marley, while explaining further, said since Mohbad left the label in September 2022 and 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.”
He said the rumours regarding the label being a drug cartel were untrue.
“l 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,” he added.
