Marlian Music CEO, Azeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, has stated that he’s making plans to return to Nigeria in order to cooperate with the investigation into the death of Ilerioluwa Aloba aka Mohbad.
In a statement shared on his Instagram on Tuesday, Naira Marley reiterated his non-involvement in the passing of Mohbad, and expressed his willingness to cooperate with the police in uncovering the circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s death.
This statement comes two weeks after Mohbad’s reported demise at the age of 27 in Lagos State, with his remains later exhumed for autopsy following an investigation by the Lagos State Police Command.
While addressing the allegations against him, Naira Marley vehemently denied any direct or indirect involvement in Mohbad’s passing, explaining that family frictions are not uncommon in the industry.
“Permit me to categorically state that I have no hand in the death of Ilerioluwa, 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.”
While praying for the soul of the deceased to rest in peace, Naira Marley said, “As it is traumatic for a lot of people to bear the reality of lleri’s death, so it is to me.”
He prayed for Mohbad’s soul to rest in peace and revealed his silence since the incident was to avoid compromising ongoing government investigations. Naira Marley mentioned that he has been out of the country since August 31, 2023, and is preparing to return to Nigeria to cooperate fully with the police.
He expressed confidence that the truth about Mohbad’s death would be revealed, stating that setting up someone in the industry was not unprecedented. Naira Marley also clarified that Marlian Music, his label, did not obstruct Mohbad’s career after he left in September 2022, and legal efforts were made to address their concerns.
“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 l have no hand in his death.”
“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,” part of the statement read.
He strongly refuted rumors of his involvement in any criminal activities or associations, emphasizing Marlian Music’s commitment to nurturing talent and supporting emerging artists through legitimate means.
“l am not a drug lord, neither do I, Marley, 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,” he added.