Unraveling the Controversy: Naira Marley’s “My Side of the Story” and the Ongoing Saga of Mohbad’s Death

In the world of Nigerian music, few events have sparked as much outrage, speculation, and division as the untimely death of Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, better known as Mohbad. The 27-year-old Afrobeats sensation passed away on September 12, 2023, under circumstances that immediately ignited nationwide protests, social media campaigns under #JusticeForMohbad, and intense scrutiny of his former label boss, Naira Marley. Nearly two years later, on August 19, 2025, Naira Marley released a highly anticipated YouTube video titled “My Side of the Story,” where he addressed the allegations head-on, presenting his perspective with receipts like chat logs and financial records. This release has reignited the debate, with fans, critics, and activists dissecting every detail. While some see it as a genuine exoneration, others view it as a calculated PR move amid lingering questions about bullying, label disputes, and the true cause of death.

Mohbad’s death exposed deep fissures in the Nigerian entertainment industry, highlighting issues like artist exploitation, mental health struggles, and the power dynamics within record labels. As of August 21, 2025, the case remains unresolved in many eyes, with calls for further investigation persisting despite official clearances. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key occurrences surrounding Mohbad’s death, drawing from timelines, investigations, and public reactions, while highlighting at least 10 pivotal points that define this tragic narrative.

The Timeline of Events: From Tragedy to Ongoing Mystery

Mohbad’s rise to fame was meteoric, but his fall was shrouded in controversy. Signed to Marlian Records in 2019, he delivered hits like “KPK (Ko Por Ke)” and “Feel Good,” but tensions with the label escalated, leading to his departure in 2022. His death a year later triggered a cascade of events that blended grief, anger, and legal battles.

15 Key Points in the Mohbad Death Saga

To make sense of this complex issue, here are the minimum 10 key points (and a few more for context) that have shaped the narrative, based on investigations, court rulings, and Naira Marley’s recent revelations:

1. Mohbad’s Sudden Death (September 12, 2023): Mohbad died at age 27 in Lagos, reportedly after receiving injections from an unqualified nurse for an injury. Initial reports cited an ear infection or possible drug reaction, but the exact cause remains disputed due to delayed forensics.

2. Rapid Burial and Exhumation: His body was buried the next day in Ikorodu, sparking suspicions. On September 21, 2023, it was exhumed for autopsy amid public outcry, but decomposition hindered determining the cause, with pathologists unable to rule out foul play definitively.

3. Allegations of Bullying and Assault: Resurfaced videos showed Mohbad being harassed by associates of Naira Marley, including Sam Larry, at a video shoot. Mohbad himself posted clips in 2022 accusing the label of assault after he tried to change managers, fueling claims of systematic bullying.

4. Nationwide Protests and #JusticeForMohbad: His death led to widespread demonstrations, vigils, and social media campaigns. Fans accused Naira Marley and his crew of involvement, leading to arrests, including Naira Marley, who spent time in custody.

5. Police Investigation and Arrests: Lagos Police named a nursing assistant as the prime suspect for administering drugs post a fight with friend Primeboy. Naira Marley, Sam Larry, and others were detained but later released on bail.

6. Court Clearance in February 2025: A Lagos court ruled Naira Marley, Sam Larry, and Primeboy had no direct hand in the death, based on a DPP report citing medical negligence. However, this didn’t quell public skepticism.

7. Family Disputes and DNA Controversies: Mohbad’s father, Joseph Aloba, has repeatedly called for reinvestigation, while tensions with Mohbad’s wife, Wunmi, over paternity tests for their son Liam and asset control have added layers of drama.

8. Mental Health and Drug Allegations: Naira Marley’s video suggests Mohbad struggled with paranoia, possibly from drugs or family pressures. Mohbad had accused the label of forcing him into substance use, while Naira claims Mohbad was suicidal.

9. Financial and Label Disputes: Evidence in the video includes leaked chats showing Mohbad using his mother-in-law’s account for royalties, bypassing the label. Naira Marley claims he tried to resolve these but denies withholding payments.

10. Naira Marley’s “My Side of the Story” Video (August 19, 2025): In the 2Hrs YouTube release, Naira denies killing or bullying Mohbad, shares their last meeting date (before 2022 split), and calls the death “premeditated.” He urges re-arrests of those around Mohbad in his final hours and presents evidence to clear his name.

11. Calls for Re-Investigation: Both Naira Marley and Mohbad’s father have demanded a fresh probe in 2025, citing unresolved forensics and potential cover-ups.

12. Polarized Public Reactions: The video has split opinions—some apologize to Naira, citing lack of direct evidence, while others, like activist Daniel Regha, insist videos prove assault. Influencers like VeryDarkMan have shifted stances, apologizing to Mohbad’s father after reviewing it.

13. Royalties and Legacy Issues: Naira addresses unpaid royalties, claiming Mohbad owed the label but he forgave debts. Ongoing disputes over earnings continue to fuel family rifts.

14. No Final Justice as of 2025: Despite clearances, the case lingers with no burial yet, and pathologists like Dr. Uwom Eze report stalled progress, leaving fans demanding closure.

15. Broader Industry Implications: The saga has spotlighted artist rights, with tributes like Naira Marley’s in music videos and calls for better protections against label exploitation.

Reflections on the Video and Its Impact

Naira Marley’s video, clocking over millions of views within days, is a masterclass in narrative control. He presents timelines, WhatsApp screenshots, and emotional appeals, insisting he thought initial death reports were “fake” for clout. Yet, critics point to undeniable videos of harassment, arguing that even if he didn’t directly cause the death, the label’s environment contributed to Mohbad’s distress. Public figures like Samklef have resurfaced assault footage, while supporters urge documentation in disputes, echoing Naira’s advice.

The controversy also underscores Nigeria’s challenges with justice systems, delayed autopsies, biased perceptions, and social media trials. Mohbad’s father remains vocal, blaming delays on family infighting, while Wunmi faces accusations of financial motives.

Conclusion: A Call for Truth and Healing

As we approach the two-year mark, Mohbad’s death remains a painful reminder of lost talent and unresolved pain. Naira Marley’s video offers one side, but the full truth may lie in a reopened investigation. Whether premeditated, accidental, or exploitative, justice must prevail—not just for Mohbad, but for future artists. Let’s honor his legacy by pushing for transparency and reform in the industry. What do you think? does the video change your view? Share in the comments below.

Rest in peace, Mohbad. Imole forever.