In a ruling that has stirred fresh debate across Nigeria, the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja has declared that the Lagos State Government cannot be compelled to prosecute music executive Naira Marley and show promoter Sam Larry over the controversial death of 27-year-old singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, widely known as Mohbad.
The ruling, delivered on Wednesday, July 2, by Justice Olatokun, dismissed an application filed by Mohbad’s father, who had challenged the legal advice clearing both men of any criminal involvement. According to the court, the powers of the Lagos State Attorney General to decide whether to prosecute or not are “absolute” and cannot be overridden.
Reacting to the judgment, Wahab Shittu (SAN), counsel to the Aloba family, vowed that the family would appeal the decision. “We are not out to witch-hunt anyone. Our only demand is justice for the late Mohbad,” he said.
This development comes months after a Lagos State Magistrate Court in Yaba, back in February, exonerated Naira Marley, Sam Larry, and Primeboy, citing advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP). That advice stated that none of them had a case to answer in relation to Mohbad’s untimely death.
Also cleared was Mohbad’s former manager, Opere Babatunde. The only individuals facing prosecution are the auxiliary nurse, Feyisayo Ogedengbe, who administered an injection to the late singer, and his friend, Ayobami Sadiq. Both are to be tried for reckless and negligent acts, which allegedly led to Mohbad’s death.
But for many Nigerians, this doesn’t sit right.
Mohbad died under suspicious circumstances on September 12, 2023, sending shockwaves across the country. He had previously spoken out about threats to his life. After his death, social media erupted with videos and accusations, with fans pointing fingers at Naira Marley and Sam Larry for allegedly bullying and harassing the young artist.
Nationwide protests followed. Nigerians, especially the youth, demanded accountability and full investigation into what they believed was a case of long-standing intimidation and possible foul play.
In response to the public outcry, Naira Marley, Sam Larry, and others were arrested by the Lagos State Police Command. While the nation waited anxiously for autopsy results, hopes for justice remained high.
Now, with this ruling, many are asking: has justice been denied? Why are the people accused of harassing Mohbad walking free, while only the nurse and a friend face trial?
As the Aloba family prepares for the next legal battle at the Court of Appeal, one thing remains clear — the fight for justice for Mohbad is far from over. And for his fans and family, closure can only come when every question is answered and every wrong addressed.
