Mohbad's Family Intensifies Call for Justice and DNA Verification
The family of late Nigerian singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, widely known as Mohbad, has strengthened their demand for a comprehensive and independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his untimely death. In a powerful statement issued by family head Omolayo Aloba and Mohbad's father Joseph Aloba, the family reiterated their unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth and ensuring justice prevails.
Legal Directives and Surname Controversy
The Aloba family has issued a clear directive to Mohbad's partner, Wunmi Adebanjo, instructing her to immediately cease using the family surname Aloba in both public and private records. This decision comes as the family awaits a court-ordered DNA test to determine the paternity of her child, Liam. According to the family, this measure is necessary to maintain legal and moral clarity throughout the ongoing investigations.
The family clarified that there was never a statutory or traditional marriage between Mohbad and Wunmi, emphasizing that traditional bride price was never paid. However, they left the door open for reconciliation, stating that if DNA results confirm Mohbad as Liam's biological father, both mother and child would receive full recognition within the estate administration process.
Legal Representation and Estate Management
In a significant development, the Aloba family has appointed Oladayo Ogungbe, Esq. of Ogungbe & Ogungbe Attorneys as their new legal representative for all matters concerning Mohbad's estate and the pending DNA case. Meanwhile, Dr. Wahab Shittu, SAN will continue representing the family in communications with investigative authorities handling the death probe.
Regarding Mohbad's substantial estate, the family revealed that three administrators have been selected to manage the late singer's assets, royalties, and intellectual property: Ajewole Aloba, Rasaq Famuyiwa, and Alonge Aloba. Notably, they reserved one position for Wunmi to join the administration team if and when DNA testing confirms Liam as Mohbad's biological son.
Legal Counterarguments and Ongoing Dispute
Responding to the family's directives, Kabir Akingbolu, the legal counsel representing Wunmi, dismissed the surname ban as unlawful and misleading. He accused the Aloba family of deliberately delaying the DNA process despite multiple court-backed opportunities to conduct the test.
Akingbolu revealed that although courts had granted their requests for DNA testing on two separate occasions, the family repeatedly failed to appear for the procedures. "They are the ones who went to court for the DNA test, and the court approved it. But they refused to appear," Akingbolu stated. "Later, they changed lawyers and requested the test to be done abroad. The court also granted that, yet they failed to show up again."
The lawyer emphasized his client's readiness for the test at any time, asserting that "the child is not illegitimate, and my client has nothing to fear." Regarding the surname controversy, Akingbolu described the family's demand as both illegal and sentimental, noting that under Nigerian law, no one can prevent a woman from using her husband's name.
Background and Ongoing Investigations
This development represents the latest chapter in the ongoing dispute between Mohbad's family and his widow concerning both the paternity of their son and control of the singer's valuable estate. Mohbad died on September 12, 2023, at the age of 27, under circumstances that sparked nationwide outrage and demands for justice.
The late artist was a former signee of Marlian Music, owned by Naira Marley, having left the label in February 2022. Following his death, the Lagos State Police Command established a 13-man special investigation team to probe the case. The family subsequently filed an application at the Ikorodu Coroner's Court seeking to determine the exact cause of death while simultaneously demanding DNA verification for the child.
The Aloba family has appealed to the public for calm and patience as legal processes unfold, emphasizing that the DNA verification aims to ensure fairness and transparency rather than shame anyone. They also announced that a new burial and memorial date will be scheduled once all internal and legal matters conclude, reaffirming that justice for Mohbad remains their unwavering goal.
