Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State, witnessed a powerful rally on Thursday, as hundreds of youths gathered to honor the memory of the late singer, Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad. The passionate crowd called upon relevant authorities, notably the police, to launch a comprehensive investigation and ensure the prosecution of those responsible for Mohbad’s untimely demise.
The rallying youths commenced their demonstration at the Awenayeri filling station, situated by Bendel Estate junction along Airport Road in Effurun. Their voices and actions were loud and clear as they played the songs of the departed artist and brandished placards adorned with poignant slogans, including ” #JusticeMohbad. Say No to Marlians,” “#You don’t have to kill somebody before you sing #Justice4Mohbad Imole. Who off the light,” “If to say Na Jazz, E for don cast. If to say Na soap, we 4 Don baff am finish. #Justice4Mohbad a.k.a, Imole#,” and “Justice for Mohbad. Justice for Imole #WarriJusticeforMohbad#.”
Notably, the protesters also voiced demands for further investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s passing. They called for Mohbad’s wife to be invited for questioning and suggested a DNA test be conducted to establish the true paternity of her son. The protesters also urged the police to apprehend Mohbad’s father and questioned the hasty burial of the late singer. Additionally, they called for the arrest of Naira Marley, Mohbad’s former label boss, and the individuals allegedly involved in injecting the deceased.
One protester, Odivri Elo Sandra, couldn’t contain her grief and wept openly during the rally. She drew a heartbreaking parallel between Mohbad’s death and her own life, expressing feelings of isolation and lack of familial support. Sandra passionately conveyed that if she were to meet a similar fate, her final resting place should be in the cemetery, highlighting her perception of being unloved by those close to her.
Adding to the chorus of demands, Warri-based musician MLI Imole, who also addressed the gathering, called for an investigation into the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) regarding their alleged denial of Mohbad’s arrest in February 2022.
As of the time of this report, the rally in honor of Mohbad is still ongoing, with the youth dancing to some of the late artist’s tracks. Their unity and determination in seeking justice for Mohbad serve as a powerful testament to the impact the young artist had on their lives and the extent to which they are willing to go to ensure his legacy is not forgotten. The authorities are now faced with the responsibility of heeding their calls for a thorough investigation and, if necessary, holding those responsible accountable for this tragic loss.