Two years have passed since the shocking death of Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, better known as Mohbad, but for his grieving family, loyal fans, and concerned Nigerians, justice remains as elusive as the truth of what happened to the 27-year-old Afrobeats star.
Mohbad, a former signee of Marlian Records, died on September 12, 2023, under circumstances that many described as suspicious and preventable. His passing triggered nationwide protests, online campaigns, and unprecedented public pressure on the Nigerian authorities to act. But as the second anniversary passes, questions are being asked: Was Mohbad failed by the system?
From Rising Star to Tragic Symbol
Mohbad’s journey to fame was one of grit and raw talent. With chart-topping songs like Peace and KPK, he built a loyal following and became one of the brightest prospects in Afrobeats.
But his departure from Marlian Records in 2022 exposed cracks in the industry. Mohbad accused his former label of harassment and physical assaults — claims that went viral after videos surfaced of him being bullied and allegedly attacked.
These incidents have taken on new significance after his death, as fans point to them as warning signs that were ignored.
Investigation: Many Questions, Few Answers
The Lagos State Police Command set up a special team to probe Mohbad’s death following massive protests across Nigeria and in the diaspora. His body was exhumed for an autopsy weeks after burial — a process meant to uncover the truth.
But since then, updates have been scarce. The police confirmed questioning several individuals, including his close associates and medical personnel, but no definitive statement on the cause of death has been made public.
In September 2024, a year after the incident, police hinted that the autopsy results were inconclusive and needed further toxicology tests abroad. Yet, as of September 2025, no final report has been released — a delay many critics say is unacceptable.
“Justice delayed is justice denied,” says Lagos-based human rights lawyer, Inibehe Effiong. “The authorities owe Nigerians transparency on why it is taking over 24 months to conclude a case with such public interest.”
Family Feuds and Public Disbelief
Complicating the quest for justice is a bitter feud within Mohbad’s family over his estate, child custody, and burial rights. His father, Joseph Aloba, has accused certain parties of frustrating the investigation, while his widow, Wunmi, insists the focus should remain on finding the truth about what killed her husband.
Fans say these family disputes — amplified by social media — risk distracting from the real issue: holding those responsible accountable.
Industry Reckoning
Mohbad’s death sparked a reckoning in the Nigerian music industry. Fellow artists, including Davido, Bella Shmurda, and Falz, called for reforms in artist-label relationships and better mental health support for young talents navigating fame.
Some industry watchers argue that Mohbad’s case is a litmus test for Nigeria’s justice system. “If we cannot resolve the death of someone so publicly beloved, what hope is there for ordinary citizens?” one commentator wrote in a widely shared post.
Two Years Later: Justice Still Hanging
Today, murals of Mohbad adorn walls in Lagos, his songs continue to top streaming charts on anniversaries, and fans worldwide mark #JusticeForMohbad trends every month. But the sense of closure is missing.
Many Nigerians now fear the case may quietly fade into obscurity, like other high-profile deaths before it. For them, the question is no longer just about Mohbad, but about whether Nigeria is capable of delivering justice fairly, swiftly, and transparently.
“Until there is a conclusive investigation, prosecutions, and convictions where necessary, we cannot say Mohbad has justice,” says activist Rinu Oduala. “What we have right now is silence — and silence is dangerous.”
Mohbad’s voice may be gone, but his story continues to echo through music, protests, and public debate. Two years on, Nigerians are still asking: Who killed Mohbad — and will they ever face justice?
