. . . Says culprit behind his death “has a vendetta against me”

Singer and songwriter, Azeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, has exonerated himself of blame in the recent controversial death of fast-rising Afrobeat musician Ilerioluwa Aloba (a.k.a. Mohbad).

Naira Marley, who took to his verified Instagram handle, @nairamarley, on Tuesday, said he had also been in shock over the death of Mohbad. He vowed that circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s death would be unveiled in due time, blaming the culprit behind his death for linking him with his former signee’s death.

Naira Marley said, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN): “In the last few days, there has been a lot of onslaught on my person and reputation globally over the death of my former signee.

“All manner of stories has been woven against me in respect of his untimely death, I have not only been in shock over the death of the deceased whom I considered to be my brother and member of our music family, but over the various lies spread and threats against me.

“Before I progress further, let me say that as it is traumatic for a lot of people to bear the reality of Ileri’s death so it is to me.

“May his gentle soul continue to rest in peace and may God grant his family the fortitude to bear his loss.

“Permit me to categorically state that I have no hand in the death of Ilerioluwa, either directly or indirectly, it 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.

“I have chosen not to say anything since due to being distraught over his death and in order not to jeopardise 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 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 scenario of attempting to set someone up is not novel in industry as other great musicians have experienced the same and came out better and stronger.

“Mine will not be an exception as l am innocent of the accusations.

“Mohbad left the label in September 2022, the label accepted his departure, Marlian Music did not stop or interfere with his career or releases since and he has been with one RPM.

“Legal efforts were made to reconcile his concerns regarding the work we had done together.”

Naira Marley, who is the owner of Marlian Music Label, noted that the rumour of him being a drug lord was not true as he was also not into any occultic group.

He said he had never been involved in any fight with the deceased and neither had he instructed anyone to bully him.

He said: “The rumours regarding the label being a drug cartel are untrue. I am not a drug lord, neither do I, Marley, belong to any cult or fraternity.

“I’m dedicated to proving my innocence and I’m cooperating with the authorities to clear my name with sufficient evidence.

“Marlian music is an independent label run by a small intimate team. We run a legitimate label that focuses on championing exceptional talent, breaking new acts and nurturing them.

“I will like to clearly state that I have never fought or attacked Mohbad. 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 artistes ever fought or mistreated Mohbad.

“I share my deepest condolences to the family. Let’s be mindful as we seek justice to focus on supporting the police and authorities with relevant information and evidence surrounding his death so that those responsible will be apprehended.

“I am positive that at the end of the day the truth will prevail and I shall be exonerated.

“My lawyers are already in touch with the police and government agencies and will support in every way necessary.

“Without a doubt I will honour his memory and I promise to do right by him and his family.”

Mohbad died on Sept. 12 and subsequently buried on Sept. 13 in Ikorodu area of Lagos, sparking controversies about his actual cause of death.

However, the Police Command in the state on Sept. 21 successfully exhumed his body for an autopsy to ascertain the cause of his death. (NAN)

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