Nearly two years after the tragic passing of Nigerian singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, his family has finally broken their silence about when the late artist will be laid to rest.
Burial Delayed by Legal and Family Matters
The Aloba family confirmed that Mohbad's body will remain at the mortuary until DNA verification processes are completed and estate matters are legally resolved. This announcement comes three years after the singer's untimely death that shocked the Nigerian music industry and his millions of fans worldwide.
In a statement released on Wednesday, November 12, and signed by family heads Omolayo Aloba and Joseph Aloba, the family explained that both internal family matters and legal formalities have prevented them from proceeding with burial arrangements. The body of the celebrated singer was exhumed in 2023 for autopsy purposes following his initial burial, but has remained at the morgue since then due to ongoing legal proceedings.
DNA Case and Estate Administration
The family has appointed new legal representation to handle the complex matters surrounding Mohbad's estate and the DNA verification case involving his son, Liam. Oladayo Ogungbe, Esq., of Ogungbe & Ogungbe Attorneys has been named the official legal representative for estate and DNA issues, while Dr. Wahab Shittu, SAN continues to communicate with investigative authorities regarding the circumstances of Mohbad's death.
Regarding estate administration, the family has authorized three individuals - Ajewole Aloba, Rasaq Famuyiwa, and Alonge Aloba - to manage all of Mohbad's assets, including:royalties, bank holdings, and musical intellectual property.
The family clarified that Wunmi Adebanjo, Mohbad's partner, will only be permitted to participate in estate matters if a court-ordered DNA test confirms that her child, Liam, is biologically related to the late singer. Until those results are available, the family has requested that she stop using the Aloba surname both publicly and privately.
Family's Commitment to Justice
The Aloba family emphasized that their primary goal remains achieving justice for Mohbad through lawful and peaceful means. They reiterated their demand for a transparent, independent, and comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the singer's death.
In their statement, the family clarified: "The family will announce a new burial date and memorial plan for Mohbad in due course after the completion of all internal and legal formalities on the DNA matter."
They further explained that the DNA verification and estate proceedings are not intended to target or vilify anyone, but rather to ensure legal clarity and fairness for all parties involved, particularly concerning the proper administration of Mohbad's legacy and assets.
The family remains resolute in their pursuit of justice while navigating the complex legal landscape that has delayed the final burial of their beloved family member, whose music continues to resonate with fans across Nigeria and beyond.
