Azeez Fashola, widely recognized as Naira Marley and the owner of Marlian Music record label, has once again addressed allegations of his involvement in the untimely demise of Nigerian artist Ilerioluwa Aloba, famously known as Mohbad.
Naira Marley took to his Instagram account on Tuesday to release an official statement regarding the ongoing investigation into the tragic passing of his former signee, Mohbad, who tragically lost his life at the age of 27 in Lagos State, with his burial taking place on September 13th.
The mysterious circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s death prompted the Lagos State Police Command to launch an investigation, eventually leading to the exhumation of his remains for a thorough autopsy.
In his statement, Naira Marley vehemently denied any involvement in Mohbad’s demise and expressed his full cooperation with the police in uncovering the truth behind this tragic incident. He also voiced his frustration with the spread of unfounded rumors linking him to the unfortunate event.
“Permit me to categorically state that I have no hand in the death of Ilerioluwa, either directly or indirectly. It is not unusual in the industry, just like in several other industries, to have family friction, even amongst blood relatives.”
While extending his prayers for the departed soul to find eternal peace, Naira Marley remarked, “As it is traumatic for a lot of people to bear the reality of lleri’s death, so it is to me.” He said the reason for his being silent since the death of Mohbad was in order not to jeopardise the investigation being carried out by government agencies.
In addition, he noted,
“I have been out of the country since the 31st of August, 2023 and I’m yet to return.”
Demonstrating his willingness to cooperate with the pertinent authorities during the investigation, Naira Marley included,
“In light of the police invitation, I am making arrangements to return to the country to assist the investigation and give my version of the events. I am fully cooperating with the Police team and I certainly have no reason to be a fugitive when l have no hand in his death.”
“In due time, the circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s death will be unveiled and the world will know the truth. This kind of scenario of attempting to set someone up is not novel in the industry as other great musicians have experienced the same and came out better and stronger. Mine will not be an exception as I am innocent of the accusations,”
part of the statement read.
Expanding on his statement, Naira Marley clarified that given Mohbad’s departure from the label in September 2022, which Marlian Music duly accepted, “Marlian Music did not stop or interfere with his career or releases since and he has been with oneRPM. Legal efforts were made to reconcile his concerns regarding the work we had done together.”
He said the rumours regarding the label being a drug cartel were untrue.
“l am not a drug lord, neither do I, Marley, belong to any cult or fraternity. I’m dedicated to proving my innocence and I’m cooperating with the authorities to clear my name with sufficient evidence. Marlian Music is an independent label run by a small intimate team. We run a legitimate label that focuses on championing exceptional talent, breaking new acts and nurturing them,” he added.
