Mohbad's Family Raises New Concerns Over DNA Lab Capacity for Late Singer's Son
The family of late Nigerian singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, has raised fresh concerns regarding the ongoing paternity test involving his son, Liam. In a significant development that adds complexity to an already sensitive legal battle, questions have emerged about the technical capacity of selected laboratories to conduct the crucial DNA testing.
Laboratory Limitations Revealed
According to a statement issued by the family's legal representative, Oladayo Ogungbe, on behalf of Mohbad's father, Joseph Aloba, preliminary inquiries have revealed that some of the laboratories chosen for the exercise may not be equipped to handle the specific requirements of this case. The statement, reported by The PUNCH, indicates that representatives contacted the laboratories to confirm their ability to conduct post-mortem DNA testing involving tissue extraction from embalmed remains.
The Lagos State Magistrate Court in Ikorodu had earlier ordered that the DNA test be conducted in three laboratories jointly agreed upon by all parties involved in the case. These facilities include DNA Diagnostics Centre in Ohio, United States; Alpha Biolabs in Warrington, United Kingdom; and Advanced Histopathology Laboratory Limited in London.
Technical Challenges Identified
Responses from Alpha Biolabs and Advanced Histopathology Laboratory Limited reportedly indicated that they do not handle procedures involving post-mortem DNA testing on tissue extracted from embalmed bodies. This revelation has introduced significant uncertainty into the process, as Mohbad's remains would require specialized testing methods that not all laboratories are equipped to perform.
"In light of these responses, the applicant deemed it necessary to notify the court," the statement noted, adding that an affidavit of facts has already been filed with the Lagos State Magistrate Court. Joseph Aloba's counsel has formally notified the court of these findings to ensure the process remains credible and scientifically valid.
Family Denies Manipulation Allegations
Amid the emerging concerns, the lawyer dismissed suggestions that the family deliberately selected unsuitable laboratories to stall the process. Ogungbe clarified that only one of the three facilities was nominated by the applicant, while the others were chosen by the respondent and the court itself.
The legal team emphasized that Joseph Aloba remains committed to a transparent and scientifically credible process that aligns with the court's directive. They stressed that their primary concern is ensuring the integrity of the testing procedure, which will determine whether Liam, born in April 2023, is the biological son of the late singer.
Background of the Legal Battle
The order for the DNA test was issued by Magistrate Adefisoye Sonuga following an application by Joseph Aloba. Since Mohbad's death in September 2023 under controversial circumstances, several legal disputes have emerged surrounding his estate, royalties, and family matters.
The case represents just one aspect of the complex legal proceedings that have followed the singer's untimely passing. The family's latest concerns about laboratory capacity add another layer to an already complicated situation that has captured public attention across Nigeria and beyond.
As the legal process continues, all parties await further developments regarding how the court will address these newly raised concerns about the technical capabilities of the selected laboratories to conduct the crucial DNA testing that could resolve the paternity question once and for all.
