Naira Marley Testifies in Mohbad’s Death Inquest, Denies Involvement Amidst Royalty Dispute Claims
In a dramatic turn of events, Nigerian singer Naira Marley has testified before a Magistrate Court in Ikorodu, Lagos State, in the Coroner’s inquest aimed at uncovering the true cause of the death of his former signee, Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad.
The Marlian Records boss joined the proceedings virtually on Friday, passionately denying any involvement in Mohbad’s passing and discrediting all allegations leveled against him by fans and associates of the late artist.
“No Threats, No Molestation” — Naira Marley Claims Innocence
Naira Marley maintained that he had no issues with Mohbad, stating that the viral video where Mohbad claimed he feared for his life was a result of drug influence. The singer claimed Mohbad and his parents later apologized for the video and added that he had not seen the artist for over a year before his tragic demise.
“I did not threaten or molest Mohbad. The allegations exist only in people’s imaginations,” Marley stated while referencing a police report that allegedly cleared him of the allegations.
Contradictions Arise As Mohbad’s Lawyer Speaks Out
Interestingly, the narrative took another twist when Oluwasanmi Falade, the lawyer to the late Mohbad, testified before the Coroner. Falade revealed that there was indeed an unresolved dispute between Mohbad and Marlian Records over unpaid royalties.
According to him, several attempts to resolve the issue through formal communication were ignored by Naira Marley's label, and the matter is now a subject of litigation at the Federal High Court.
Falade also disclosed that Mohbad had been attacked at Lekki Beach by music promoter Sam Larry, and that the late singer had reported the incident to the Force Headquarters, which had unsuccessfully attempted to arrest Sam Larry twice.
The Coroner Demands Answers
Following the testimonies, Magistrate Adedayo Shotobi instructed that Sam Larry be summoned to testify at the next adjourned date. Additionally, the Coroner ordered the pathologist who conducted the independent autopsy on Mohbad to submit his findings to both the Coroner’s court and the Chief Coroner before the next sitting on April 11.
Opinion: A Battle Of Stories Or A Quest For Truth?
This case is turning out to be a tale of conflicting narratives. Naira Marley’s claims of innocence stand in sharp contrast to the lawyer’s revelations about royalty disputes and failed attempts at legal redress.
The burning question is, why did Naira Marley’s Marlian Records allegedly ignore multiple requests for royalty payments if indeed there was no bad blood? And even if Mohbad’s apology video was influenced by drugs, as Marley claims, does that negate the clear distress he expressed over his safety?
It’s high time the music industry prioritized accountability and transparency. The upcoming hearing on April 11, which will feature Sam Larry’s testimony, may be crucial to shedding light on the tragic incident and bringing closure to Mohbad’s grieving fans and family.
Engagement Questions:
Do you believe Naira Marley’s version of events or Mohbad’s lawyer’s claims?
Should Marlian Records be held responsible for unpaid royalties if proven true?
What impact will the outcome of this inquest have on the Nigerian music industry?
