Naira Marley Breaks Silence on Mohbad’s Death: “I Thought It Was a Lie, I Was in a Restaurant Abroad”

Controversial Nigerian singer and Marlian Music boss, Azeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, has finally spoken about the tragic death of his former signee, Ilerioluwa Aloba, better known as Mohbad.

Naira Marley, who has been at the center of heated accusations since Mohbad’s passing in September 2023, revealed in a fresh statement that he initially dismissed the news as false. According to him, he believed it was another publicity stunt and not reality.

“When I first heard that Mohbad had died, I said it was a lie. I thought maybe he just wanted to blow again. I didn’t believe it at all,” Marley said, recounting the moment.

He explained that he was outside the country, dining in a restaurant, when the news broke. “I was in a restaurant abroad when I heard people talking about it. It didn’t sound real to me until it became clear.”

The singer, who faced intense backlash with many accusing him and his associates of bullying the late Mohbad while he was alive, maintained that he had no hand in his death. He insisted that despite their fallout, he never wished the young star harm and was devastated when he finally confirmed the news.

Mohbad’s death at just 27 sparked nationwide outrage and street protests across Nigeria, with fans demanding justice. His sudden passing also triggered police investigations, with fingers pointed at Marlian Music and those previously linked to the singer’s troubled career.

Naira Marley’s fresh remarks are likely to stir new debate online, as many Nigerians still question the circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s final days. His statement comes amid ongoing calls for accountability and clarity in the unresolved case.

Mohbad, who rose to fame with hit tracks such as “Ponmo,” “KPK (Ko Por Ke),” and “Peace,” was widely celebrated as one of the fastest-rising stars of his generation. His death left a vacuum in Nigeria’s music industry, fueling conversations about mental health, industry pressure, and the darker side of fame.

As the investigation into Mohbad’s death continues, fans and critics alike remain divided. For some, Naira Marley’s explanation may be an attempt to clear his name, while for others, it will be seen as too little, too late.

What is clear, however, is that the late singer’s legacy continues to live on, and his story has become a symbol of resilience and struggle in the Nigerian entertainment industry.

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