Naira Marley Denies Role in Mohbad’s Death, Speaks Nearly a Year After Tragedy
The Marlian Music chief says he neither bullied nor harmed his former signee, as he reflects on his struggles and Mohbad’s final controversies.
Musician Azeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, has publicly addressed the death of his former artist, Ilerioluwa Aloba, better known as Mohbad, almost a year after the late singer’s passing.
Mohbad died on September 12, 2023, at just 27 years old, a loss that triggered nationwide protests and demands for justice across Nigeria’s music scene.
Earlier this year, a Yaba Magistrate’s Court cleared Naira Marley and music promoter Sam Larry of any involvement in the circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s death. The ruling also freed Mohbad’s ex-manager, Babatunde Opere, and his childhood friend, Primeboy.
In July, however, the Ikorodu Coroner’s Court recommended that charges be filed against auxiliary nurse Feyisayo Ogedengbe, whose treatment of the singer shortly before his death was ruled “unlawful and professionally negligent.” The court stopped short of linking the nurse’s actions to foul play or homicide.
Months after his acquittal, Marley released a video statement on Marlian Music’s official YouTube channel. In it, he denied long-standing claims that he bullied or had a hand in Mohbad’s death.
“No, I didn’t bully him, and I didn’t kill him,” he said firmly.
The record label boss also spoke about his personal struggles, recalling his 2019 arrest by the EFCC, the challenges of navigating life in Nigeria as a public figure, and why he has since chosen to spend more time abroad with his children.
Reflecting on Mohbad’s turbulent period before his death, Marley noted the series of controversies the singer faced — from his clash with the NDLEA and a suicide attempt to disputes with his manager and distributor. Despite these challenges, Marley claimed Mohbad still wanted to reconcile.
“Even after all of this, Mohbad still told people he wanted to come and apologize. But I didn’t know he was going to die. If I knew, I would have let him come,” Marley said.
He added that he was in Amsterdam with his family at the time Mohbad passed away.
