Imole: How singer Mohbad illuminated a dark world

The sudden and tragic passing of Nigerian singer and rapper MohBad has shocked the music industry and fans worldwide.

On September 12, 2023, at the age of 27, the gifted artist—real name Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba—passed away. His untimely death has left a void in the hearts of his fans and sparked a wave of online outrage and calls for justice.

Mohbad is survived by his wife Omowunmi and their son Liam, who was five months old on the day his father died.

He had gained widespread recognition for his hit singles such as “Ponmo” , “Feel Good” and “KPK (Ko Por Ke)” in collaboration with Rexxie.

Since the singer’s death, many fans, celebrities, and other public figures have mourned and paid tribute to him.

His death is still shrouded in mystery, causing widespread speculation and concern. Authorities have been prompted to launch a special investigation into the events that led to his untimely death.

Mohbad: A memory carved on stone

The rising star, cut short but not down, isn’t just a name but a memory carved on stone, one that we will not soon forget.

As fans mourn and remember the star, tributes from fellow artists, industry insiders, and music fans worldwide have poured in.

Reacting to news of his death, Afrobeats star, Davido, tweeted a lighted candle for the departed.

Multiple award-winning rapper, Olamide, took to his social media platform, X, formerly known as Twitter, to react to the news of Mohbad’s death.

The singer expressed his devastation in a short post that read, “Damn ! Mohbad ????”.

Popular afro-pop artiste, Small Doctor, on his Instagram page, wrote, “that future you are planning so hard, you fit no see am????. Imole Baba Imole????. Till we meet again????”.

Chocolate City rapper and music mogul, MI Abaga, also took to his social media platform to react to the passing of the young and talented rapper.

RIP Mohbad ????

MI, who initially expressed his disbelief at the news of the death of Mohbad wrote, “RIP Mohbad”.

Rapper and actor, Reminisce, who recently collaborated with Mohbad and featured him as one of the artistes on his upcoming project, shared a short post that read, “Imole!”

Rapper Phyno said, “This thing called life man !!! RIP MOHBAD

Mohbad: Music and light (Imole)

Before his passing, MohBad, also known as Imole (meaning “light” in Yoruba), solidified his position as one of Nigeria’s prominent artists. His distinct fusion of hip-hop and Afrobeat garnered him an extensive fan base both locally and internationally.

MohBad made substantial contributions to the music scene, gaining recognition for his unique style and captivating lyrics. As a former artist signed under Marlian Records, owned by the renowned Naira Marley, he had established himself as a notable figure in the industry.

His music resonated with a wide audience, evident in the substantial fan following he amassed during his relatively short yet impactful career.

With each new release, he pushed the boundaries of musical innovation, showcasing his undeniable influence in the music industry.

His talent even earned him a nomination for the Best Street Hip-Hop Artiste category at the recently concluded 16th Headies Awards, thanks to his hit song ‘Peace.’

Mohbad’s Death: Controversies linking Naira Marley, Sam Larry and Co.

Given that the 27-year-old was buried the next day without an autopsy, there have been several controversies and conspiracy theories about the cause of his death.

Video and audio recordings of vicious assaults allegedly carried out by agents of his former label Marlian Music, owned by Naira Marley, have also surfaced on social media.

In one video, show promoter Sam Larry and some unidentified people are seen storming a studio where Mohbad and fellow singer Zlatan Ibile were working, allegedly with the intent to harm them.

A petition filed by Mohbad on June 27 against Sam Larry, alleging assault and property destruction, also surfaced on social media.

Sam Larry then deactivated his Instagram account and released a video in which he claimed he did not harm or kill Mohbad.

Mohbad lives on

MohBad’s premature departure has left a hole in the Nigerian music scene that might never really be filled. His music, his style, and his spirit were a beacon of light, aptly represented by his Yoruba moniker, Imole.

He consistently pushed the bounds as a living example of the industry’s limitless talent and creativity.

All who had the opportunity to experience MohBad’s artistry will miss him dearly, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of his admirers forever. His music will live on as a reminder of the imprint he left on the Nigerian music scene even though he may not physically be with us anymore.