Marlian Records boss and controversial singer, Azeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, has announced his readiness to return to Nigeria to answer questions concerning the death of his former signee, Oladimeji Ilerioluwa Aloba, professionally known as Mohbad, if his safety woukd be guaranteed by the Police.
Mohbad died on the September 12, 2023, under questionable circumstances. His demise has led to several processions and peaceful marches across Nigeria and abroad as fans demand a proper investigation into his death, while demanding for the arrest and questioning Naira Marley and his associate, Sam Larry.
“Permit me to categorically state that I have no hand in the death of llerioluwa, either directly or indirectly. It is not unusual in the industry, just like in several other industries to have family friction, even amongst blood relatives,” he said in a statement posted on his Instagram page on Tuesday.
“In the last few days, there has been a lot of onslaught on my person and reputation globally over the death of my former signee. All manner of stories has been woven against me in respect of his untimely death.
“I have not only been in shock over the death of the deceased whom I considered to be my brother and member of our music family, but over the various lies spread and threats against me.
“Before I progress further, let me say that as it is traumatic for a lot of people to bear the reality of lleri’s death, so it is to me. May his gentle soul continue to rest in peace and may God grant his family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss,” he said.
Reacting to the alleged disagreements they had, Naira Marley said the situation was far from what those he referred to as “hirelings” are painting.
In his words: “Truly, we had our own share of misunderstandings whilst working together, but the disagreement between us was never to the extent being painted by some hirelings. It never degenerated to the extent of wishing each other death. Even at that, we were resolving our business disputes legally before he had passed.”
He explained that his silence since Mohbad’s passing was in order not to jeopardise the ongoing investigation into the late singer’s death.
“In addition, I have been out of the country since the 31st of August, 2023 and I’m yet to return. In light of the police invitation, I am making arrangements to return to the country to assist the investigation and give my version of the events. I am fully cooperating with the Police team and I certainly have no reason to be a fugitive when I have no hand in his death.
“I am certain that the culprit behind his death has a vendetta against me and are fueling public opinions to have me lynched for reasons known to them. In due time the circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s death will be unveiled and the world will know the truth. This kind of scenario of attempting to set someone up is not novel in the industry as other great musicians have experienced the same and came out better and stronger. Mine will not be an exception as I am innocent of the accusations.
“Mohbad left the label in September 2022, the label accepted his departure. Marlian Music did not stop or interfere with his career or releases since and he has been with one RPM. Legal efforts were made to reconcile his concerns regarding the work we had done together. “The rumors regarding the label being a drug cartel are untrue. I am not a drug lord, neither do I belong to any cult or fraternity.
“I’m dedicated to proving my innocence and I’m cooperating with the authorities to clear my name with sufficient evidence. Marlian Music is an independent label run by a small intimate team. We run a legitimate label that focuses on championing exceptional talent, breaking new acts and nurturing them. I will like to clearly state that I have never fought or attacked Mohbad. For the avoidance of doubt I have never instructed anyone, friend, known associates or fans to attack, bully or harass,” he said.
Marley repeated similar claims in his social media interview with Reno Omokri in a bid to counter the popular narrative that he personally instructed his cohorts to carry out several physical attacks on Mohbad.
