A Lagos Magistrate Court sitting in Sabo, Yaba, has ruled that singer Abdulazeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, along with music promoter Samson Balogun Eletu (Sam Larry), Owodunni Ibrahim (Primeboy), and former manager Opere Babatunde, have no case to answer regarding the death of singer Aloba Oladimeji IleriOluwa, widely known as Mohbad.
Magistrate Ejiro Kubenje, while implementing the legal advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP) Lagos, declared that the accused individuals were not culpable in the events leading to Mohbad’s passing. As a result, the court ordered their release from all charges connected to the case.
DPP’s Legal Review and Court’s Ruling
The ruling follows the legal review conducted by the DPP, which found no substantial evidence linking Naira Marley, Sam Larry, Primeboy, and Babatunde to the singer’s death.
The verdict aligns with growing demands for a fair and evidence-based approach in the investigation of the tragic incident that shook the Nigerian music industry and its fans.
Despite the clearance of these individuals, the DPP has resolved to prosecute two other suspects: the auxiliary nurse, Feyisayo Ogedengbe, who administered treatment to Mohbad before his demise, and one of the singer’s close friends, Ayobami Sadiq.
They are to be charged with reckless and negligent acts under Section 251 (e) of the Criminal Law, Ch C.17, Vol.3, Laws of Lagos State, 2015.
The duo is set to face trial at the Magistrate Court in Lagos, where they will be required to answer for their roles in the events leading up to Mohbad’s passing.
Public Reaction and Legal Implications
The case has been a subject of intense public scrutiny, with many fans and industry stakeholders calling for justice. Mohbad’s sudden and mysterious death in September 2023 had sparked nationwide protests and calls for accountability, leading to the initial arrest of several individuals, including Naira Marley and Sam Larry.
Following the ruling, supporters of the accused individuals took to social media to celebrate their release, while others expressed concerns over the circumstances surrounding the case.
Some critics argue that a more in-depth investigation is required to uncover all responsible parties.
On the other hand, legal experts have emphasized that the decision by the DPP indicates a reliance on substantial evidence rather than public sentiment. The prosecution of Ogedengbe and Sadiq suggests that authorities are focusing on professional negligence as a key factor in Mohbad’s untimely demise.
Next Steps in the Case
With the upcoming trial of Ogedengbe and Sadiq, legal proceedings are expected to shed more light on the final moments of Mohbad’s life.
The court is likely to examine medical procedures and professional conduct in handling the late singer’s condition.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that justice is served fairly.
The case has also fueled ongoing discussions about the need for greater regulatory oversight in Nigeria’s healthcare sector, particularly concerning unlicensed or improperly trained medical practitioners.
As the trial unfolds, Nigerians and music lovers worldwide will be watching closely, hoping for clarity and closure on the case that has deeply affected the entertainment industry and beyond.
