Mohbad: My hands are clean, Naira Marley vows to clear name

Singer Naira Marley has debunked all allegations against him and record label Marlian Music over the death of singer Mohbad.

He released a statement on Tuesday via Instagram, stating his shock at the allegations against him.

The statement said he had no hand in the 27-year-old’s death.

It read, “Permit me to categorically state that I have no hand in the death of llerioluwa, either directly or indirectly. It is not unusual in the industry, just like in several other industries to have family friction, even amongst blood relatives. Truly, we had our own share of misunderstandings whilst working together, but the disagreement between us was never to the extent being painted by some hirelings. It never degenerated to the extent of wishing each other death. Even at that, we were resolving our business disputes legally before he had passed.”

According to the statement, Naira Marley would be returning to Nigeria to assist the police investigating Mohbad’s death.

“I have chosen not to say anything since due to being distraught over his death and in order not to jeopardize the investigation being carried out by the government agencies. In addition, I have been out of the country since the 31st of August, 2023 and I’m yet to return. In light of the police invitation, I am making arrangements to return to the country to assist the investigation and give my version of the events. I am fully cooperating with the Police team and I certainly have no reason to be a fugitive when I have no hand in his death.

“I am certain that the culprit behind his death and has a vendetta against me and are fueling public opinions to have me lynched for reasons known to them. In due time the circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s death will be unveiled and the world will know the truth. This kind of scenario of attempting to set someone up is not novel in the industry as other great musicians,” the statement read.

Naira Marley debunked claims that he was a “drug lord” and added that Marlian Music is not a “drug cartel, cult or fraternity”.

“For the avoidance of doubt I have never instructed anyone, friend, known associates or fans to attack, bully or harass Mohbad. With regards to the talent on the label, none of our artists ever fought or mistreated Mohbad,” he said.

The statement also expressed Naira Marley’s condolences to Mohbad’s family, stating that he would honour his memory.

Mohbad died on Tuesday, September 12, leaving behind his wife, his five-month-old son and his parents.

Naira Marley, who has been at the centre of the controversy, had a misunderstanding with Mohbad in 2022 which forced the latter out of Marlian Music.