Naira Marley Breaks Silence, Denies Bullying or Killing Mohbad

Nigerian singer Azeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, has denied allegations linking him to the death of his former signee, Ilerioluwa Aloba, aka Mohbad.

In a video released on YouTube on Wednesday, the Marlian Records boss broke his silence, insisting that he never bullied or harmed the late artist, contrary to widespread claims.

Mohbad died on September 12, 2023, at the age of 27, sparking nationwide outrage and multiple investigations. In February, a Magistrate’s Court in Yaba, Lagos, acquitted Naira Marley and music promoter Sam Larry of any wrongdoing in the case, while also clearing two others – Primeboy and Mohbad’s former manager, Babatunde Opere.

The coroner’s inquest, however, faulted the conduct of auxiliary nurse Feyisayo Ogedengbe, who was indicted for administering an injection to Mohbad without a doctor’s prescription, describing her actions as “unlawful and professionally negligent.”

Addressing the matter in his new video, Naira Marley said,“I’ve never sent anyone to bully Mohbad. I didn’t bully him, and I didn’t kill him. I was in Amsterdam when he died. Those who were with him 24 to 48 hours before his death should be the ones questioned.”

The “Soapy” crooner also shared details of his relationship with Mohbad, alleging that the late singer had personal struggles, including drug use and mental health challenges. He recounted efforts to support him through health checks, medications, and intervention talks with his parents.

Naira Marley further explained financial dealings between Mohbad and Marlian Records, noting that the label operated a 50-50 revenue-sharing structure. He claimed Mohbad once withdrew $72,000 from a digital streaming partner without remitting it, which later strained their relationship.

He also addressed Mohbad’s online accusations after a 2022 NDLEA raid, where the late artist, under duress, went live on Instagram claiming Marlian Music was threatening his life.

According to Naira Marley, Mohbad and his family later apologised over the incident.

Concluding his statement, he criticised the police for detaining him for two months in Panti, Yaba, despite his voluntary return to Nigeria to clear his name. He also disclosed that Marlian Records was ready to hand over Mohbad’s royalties to his family or any court-appointed custodian.

“I stand on my innocence. I never bullied him, and I had no hand in his death,” he affirmed.

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