Nigerian rapper Azeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, has called on the police to revisit investigations into the death of his former signee, Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba (Mohbad).

Speaking in a video broadcast via his YouTube channel on Tuesday, Marley insisted on his innocence and urged the police to re-arrest him, his associate Samson Balogun (Sam Larry), and others accused in the case so that justice can be served transparently.

“If you ask me, I will tell the Police to arrest everybody again. Put an officer we can trust in charge,” he said.

The Marlian Music boss explained that he returned to Nigeria at the height of the accusations to clear his name, despite claims of conspiracy against him. He also revealed that he has reached an agreement with Mohbad’s lawyer to hand over the singer’s royalties to whichever family member the court recognizes as the rightful custodian of his estate.

Recall that Mohbad died under controversial circumstances on September 12, 2023, sparking a nationwide outcry and heated debates about bullying, record label exploitation, and the welfare of young artists.

Following his death, Naira Marley, Sam Larry, and others were arrested and detained at the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, for two months before being released on bail. Mohbad’s close friend, Prime Boy, was also arrested but later granted bail.

The Lagos Coroner’s Court later concluded that while Mohbad’s death was not linked to foul play, it was a result of medical negligence by auxiliary nurse Feyisayo Ogedengbe, who administered the fatal injection. The court subsequently directed the prosecution of the nurse.

Opinion

Naira Marley’s fresh call for re-investigation is both unusual and telling. On one hand, it may be a bold attempt to prove his innocence once and for all. On the other, it could be seen as a desperate move to regain public trust in the face of lingering doubts about his role in Mohbad’s tragic demise.

But beyond Marley’s appeal lies a deeper truth: Nigeria’s justice system often leaves the public unconvinced. When investigations drag on, evidence gets compromised, and conspiracy theories thrive. That is why even after official findings pointed to medical negligence, many Nigerians still suspect foul play.

Justice is not just about legal pronouncements; it is also about public confidence in due process. Re-arresting suspects may not be necessary if the first investigation was thorough and transparent. However, the very fact that Marley himself is asking for it shows how much faith the public—and even the accused—have lost in the process.

The death of Mohbad should not be reduced to endless drama. What Nigerians need is closure, and what his family deserves is justice—delivered with clarity, fairness, and credibility.