The Lagos State Coroner’s Court in Ikorodu has taken a significant step in the ongoing investigation into the death of Nigerian singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad.
The court has issued orders for substituted service to several key individuals who may have information relevant to the case.
The inquest into Mohbad’s death, which occurred under suspicious circumstances on September 12, 2023, has attracted significant public attention.
Mohbad, a rising star in Nigeria’s music industry, died at the age of 27, leaving fans and the music community in shock.
His death has been surrounded by rumours and allegations, particularly about the role of certain individuals in his life and career.
The circumstances of his passing have been deemed suspicious, prompting an official inquest to uncover the truth.
On August 23, 2024, Magistrate T. A. Sotobi of the Ikorodu Coroner’s Court approved the family’s request to summon additional witnesses.
These witnesses are believed to hold critical information that could shed light on the events leading to Mohbad’s untimely death.
The court directed that the summons be served through substituted means, including publication in a widely read national newspaper and on social media platforms, ensuring that the individuals in question are reached promptly.
The key individuals to be served with the witness summons include prominent figures such as Azeez Fashola, also known as Naira Marley, and Samson Eletu, popularly referred to as Sam Larry.
Both men are well-known in Nigeria’s music industry and have been associated with Mohbad in the past.
Naira Marley is a renowned musician and the head of Marlian Music, a label that Mohbad was once signed to, while Sam Larry has been linked to allegations of intimidation and harassment against Mohbad.
In addition to Naira Marley and Sam Larry, other individuals summoned include Mohbad’s sister-in-law, Karimot Ogunbayo; Boluwatife Adeyemo, also known as Darosha; and Mohbad’s lawyer, Oluwasanmi Falade.
The court also ordered witness summonses for Feyisayo Ogedengbe, the nurse who reportedly treated Mohbad during his final days, and Fidelis Esanbor, the driver who transported him to the hospital.
The legal team representing the Aloba family, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Wahab Shittu, argued the application for the witness summons.
They emphasized the importance of these individuals providing testimony about the connection and circumstances leading to Mohbad’s death.
The court, acknowledging the gravity of the situation, approved the application and instructed that the witnesses be served via substituted means to ensure their timely appearance in court.
In a statement released by the family’s legal representative, Monisola Odumosu, it was confirmed that the Coroner’s Court granted their request on August 16.
The legal team stressed that the witnesses’ testimonies are crucial for uncovering the truth behind Mohbad’s death, which has been surrounded by controversy and public outcry.
“The court’s decision to issue substituted service is a critical step in ensuring that those who have relevant information come forward to assist in the investigation.
“We are committed to seeking justice for Mohbad and will continue to pursue every legal avenue available,” the statement read.
The court’s decision to summon these witnesses has been met with widespread interest. Naira Marley, in particular, has been a controversial figure in the Nigerian music scene, with a significant following and a history of legal troubles.
His association with Mohbad and the allegations that have surfaced since the singer’s death have only heightened the public’s demand for transparency and accountability.
Sam Larry, who has also been linked to Mohbad, has faced allegations of harassment and threats against the late singer.
These claims have fueled speculation about his possible involvement in the events leading up to Mohbad’s death, making his testimony in the inquest particularly anticipated.
The Coroner’s Court also approved the recall of two key witnesses who had previously testified: Wunmi, Mohbad’s widow, and ASP Muhammad Yusuf, the Investigating Police Officer (IPO) handling the case.
Their additional testimonies are expected to provide further insight into the ongoing investigation.
