A petition to ban Naira Marley’s music label, Marlian Records following the death of 27-year-old singer, Mohbad, has gained significant traction, accumulating over 100,000 signatures.
The controversy stems from a viral video that surfaced online, showing the late singer Mohbad being assaulted prior to his untimely death.
Outraged by this video and the allegations surrounding it, concerned individuals launched the petition in an effort to hold Naira Marley and his music label accountable.
The petition has sparked a flurry of reactions on social media. Twxyt commented, “Haaaa Omo 9ja dey play oooo, once they LOVE YOU!!! They can go any length for you.”
Others, like Unique Stella, expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of such petitions, citing past experiences: “I really wished all these petitions actually worked but it doesn’t. I know how many I signed after the election. Oh well, we all saw how that played.”
Some, like Omo Ola Omo Oye, defended the concept of an employer’s right to make decisions about their business: “The culture of ENTITLEMENT is backfiring. An employer has the right to HIRE & FIRE. It is a business, not sentimental.”
The controversy surrounding Naira Marley’s music label and its alleged involvement in Mohbad’s harassment has provoked strong reactions.
In the video that ignited the furor, Mohbad was seen shooting a music video with Zlatan while seated in a wheelchair when Sam Larry, an associate of Naira Marley, arrived at the location wielding a machete and other weapons.
The ensuing backlash prompted Larry to first restrict the comments on his Instagram page and eventually deactivate it altogether.
Social media users didn’t spare Naira Marley either, calling for his songs to be banned on music platforms.
Mohbad, who was previously signed to Naira Marley’s Marlian Records, left the label in 2022.
In an Instagram live session following his release from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) camp, Mohbad accused Naira Marley and other group members of posing a threat to his life.
He firmly believed that Naira Marley and Marlian music would play a role in his potential demise, urging his fans to hold the label boss accountable.
The singer and rapper also posted videos alleging that he had been assaulted by Naira Marley’s crew after requesting a change of manager.
Naira Marley responded to these accusations by labeling them as lies and revealing his side of the story.
Adding to the controversy, Bella Shmurda, a friend and colleague of Mohbad, confirmed in an interview that Naira Marley had been threatening his life.
Paulo Okoye, show promoter and partner of actress Iyabo Ojo, also disclosed that the singer had confided in him about his fears, harassment, and struggles with depression.
As the petition continues to gather signatures and the controversy unfolds, the Nigerian music industry and fans alike eagerly await further developments in the quest for justice and accountability.