Mohbad: Court Clears Naira Marley, Sam Larry As Family Heads To Appeal

A Lagos State High Court in Ikeja has ruled that the state government cannot be forced to prosecute music executive Naira Marley and show promoter Sam Larry over the controversial death of singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad.

The ruling came after an application filed by the late singer’s father, Joseph Aloba, sought to challenge earlier legal advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP), which absolved the duo of criminal responsibility.

Delivering judgment on Wednesday, Justice Olatokun held that the powers of the Lagos State Attorney General to commence or discontinue criminal prosecution, as provided under Section 211 of the Constitution, are absolute and cannot be questioned by the court.

“The Attorney General’s discretion in criminal matters is sacrosanct,” the judge stated.

Reacting to the decision, Wahab Shittu (SAN), counsel to the Aloba family, expressed disappointment and revealed plans to approach the Court of Appeal.
“Our quest is simply for justice for Mohbad. We will continue this fight at the appellate level,” he said.

Earlier in February, a Magistrate Court in Yaba had also cleared Naira Marley, Sam Larry, and Mohbad’s former manager, Opere Babatunde (Primeboy), relying on the same DPP advice which found no case to answer.

However, the DPP recommended the prosecution of Feyisayo Ogedengbe, the auxiliary nurse who treated Mohbad before his death, and Ayobami Sadiq, one of his close associates. They are to stand trial for reckless and negligent acts under Section 251(e) of the Lagos State Criminal Law, 2015, at the Magistrate Court.

Mohbad, a former Marlian Records artist, died on September 12, 2023, under circumstances that sparked widespread outrage. The singer had repeatedly alleged threats to his life and assault linked to individuals from his former label. Following his death, police detained several suspects, including Naira Marley and Sam Larry, pending autopsy results and investigations.

Wednesday’s verdict has stirred fresh public concern, with many accusing authorities of shielding high-profile figures. Meanwhile, civil rights groups and fans continue to call for a transparent investigation into the singer’s death.