By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
LAGOS – A Lagos Magistrate Court has officially cleared singer Azeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, and music promoter Samson Balogun Eletu, also known as Sam Larry, of any involvement in the controversial death of singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, widely known as Mohbad.
The court’s decision on Tuesday followed the legal advice issued by the Lagos State Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), which found no substantial evidence linking Naira Marley and Sam Larry to the musician’s tragic demise in September 2024.
However, the DPP’s report recommended the prosecution of the nurse, Feyisayo Ogedengbe, who treated Mohbad shortly before his death, as well as the late singer’s friend, Ayobami Sadiq. Both individuals are to face legal action for reckless and negligent acts that may have contributed to Mohbad’s passing.
Naira Marley and Sam Larry were arrested in October 2024 by the Lagos State Police Command as part of investigations into the circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s death. The duo spent 40 days in custody before securing bail in November 2024.
Meanwhile, the controversy surrounding Mohbad’s death led his family and legal representatives to demand an independent autopsy and toxicology test. This request came after the Lagos State Government’s initial autopsy report was deemed inconclusive. The independent findings were completed in December 2024, further intensifying public interest in the case.
With the latest ruling, legal proceedings are now expected to focus on the individuals directly implicated by the DPP’s findings. The case remains a subject of national attention, with fans and industry stakeholders calling for justice and accountability.
