How Uncertainty Surrounding Mohbad’s Death Persists as Autopsy Results Remain Indeterminate
By Ngozi Uma
The circumstances of Nigerian artist Mohbad’s death, whose real name was Ilerioluwa Aloba, on September 12, 2023, remain unclear. Despite a coroner’s inquest at the Ikorodu High Court, the autopsy results did not determine the cause of death due to the body’s decomposition.
African Television and the African Foundation for Justice have offered a N50 million reward for information leading to the capture and prosecution of those responsible for Mohbad’s death. Larry Omodia, CEO of African Television, expressed his sorrow over the inconclusive autopsy and stressed the need for answers. “The court has informed us that the cause of death is unascertained, making this one of Nigeria’s great mysteries,” Omodia stated after the court session.
Omodia praised the efforts of the Nigerian police in their investigation. He announced, “In support of the police’s work, African Television, along with our partners, is offering 50 million naira for any information that leads to the conviction of those responsible for Mohbad’s death. We believe someone out there knows the truth.”
Speaking at the Ikorodu High Court following the coroner’s inquest, Omodia mentioned that key witnesses, including Primeboy, a close friend of Mohbad, and the pathologist who performed the autopsy, had been cross-examined. The report highlighted that the cause of death was indeterminate due to the body’s decomposed state. Omodia reiterated the reward offer, saying, “We are offering N50 million to anyone, whether a police officer, market woman, or gateman, who has information about Mohbad’s death. We assure you will be taken abroad for safety.”
African Television has also created a foundation to protect press freedom in Nigeria and to support the investigation into Mohbad’s death. This initiative has led to the arrest of journalists and bloggers, including Arifa and Veron, who are currently in police custody.
The foundation has also pledged N10 million for a DNA test for Mohbad’s son and is offering free DNA tests for every child in Nigeria, in collaboration with partners in Belgium, the UK, and Malta. Omodia encouraged Nigerians to join this movement and announced a tribute concert, “Sing For Mohbad,” set for September to honor the late artist.
Prof. I.O Smith SAN clarified that the autopsy report is just one piece of evidence and that the pathologist would be recalled for further questioning after a thorough review of the report. “The autopsy report is not definitive; we have multiple forms of evidence, including direct and circumstantial. The case is ongoing, with the next hearing scheduled for June 25,” he said.
Mohbad’s lawyer, Wahab Shittu SAN, explained that the body’s decomposition was a significant factor in the autopsy’s inconclusiveness. “The pathologist provided his evidence today, and further cross-examination is necessary. We must remain open-minded until all possibilities are examined,” Shittu urged.
