In the early hours of Wednesday, August 20, 2025, Nigerian artist Naira Marley—birth name Azeez Fashola—uploaded a YouTube video addressing allegations surrounding the 2023 death of his former signee, Mohbad (Ilerioluwa Aloba) who died under controversial circumstances.
Marley defended himself against widespread accusations that he bullied, harassed, or orchestrated Mohbad’s death. He also released chats and evidence, claiming they prove his innocence.
“I Never Bullied or Killed Mohbad”
Naira Marley insisted that Mohbad’s struggles were largely personal and health-related, stressing that he had no hand in the late artist’s demise.
“I’ve never sent anybody to bully him. I did not kill Mohbad,” he declared.
He disclosed that Mohbad had once battled with drug use and mental health challenges, including a reported suicide attempt in 2022. According to him, the Marlian Music team intervened by covering medical expenses and offering him support.
Disputes Over Contracts and Royalties
Marley also addressed long-standing financial disputes. He said Mohbad personally chose his manager and initially offered a 25% cut, which Marley negotiated down to 10%. He maintained that their business agreement was transparent, with a “50-50 split” after expenses.
The Marlian boss further alleged that Mohbad once withdrew about $72,000 in royalties from a digital streaming platform without proper clearance, which forced a freeze on payments. He said Marlian Music has now pledged to redirect all royalties to Mohbad’s family.
NDLEA Raid and Mental Breakdown
Recalling the February 2022 NDLEA raid on his residence, Marley admitted Mohbad’s erratic behavior afterward, including a viral livestream where the late singer accused him of wanting him dead. Marley attributed the outburst to Mohbad’s fragile mental state at the time.
Where He Was During Mohbad’s Death
Addressing speculations about his involvement on the day Mohbad died, Marley stated that he was in Amsterdam at the time and questioned why authorities had not focused more on those who were physically present with Mohbad before his passing.
Police Detention
Marley also criticized his two-month detention by Nigerian authorities in 2023, describing it as an “unjust experience” that further damaged his reputation without proof of wrongdoing.
Closing Words
In his final remarks, Marley expressed sadness over Mohbad’s death and called for a fair and thorough investigation.
“I’m innocent. I loved Mohbad like a brother. His death still hurts me deeply,” he said.
The singer urged the public to allow justice to take its course while also extending condolences to Mohbad’s family.