One year has passed since the tragic death of singer Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad.

The singer's sudden death shocked the music industry and spurred a national dialogue about a variety of topics, including marriage, family conflicts, the pressures of stardom, mental health, and paternity fraud.

Though Mohbad's family, friends, and fellow artists are still grieving his passing, one question remains: Will justice ever be served for him?

Circumstances surrounding Mohbad's death

On Tuesday, September 12, 2023, Mohbad passed away under circumstances that sparked many questions. Fans and followers suspected foul play after his death, which was initially described as a natural death or an auxiliary nurse's negligence. They cited his recent experiences in the music industry, including claims that his record label, Marlian Records had harassed and intimidated him.

At first, the singer was outspoken about his problems, including tensions with his previous boss, Naira Marley which led to his departure from the record label due to claims of physical abuse, harassment, and exploitation.

Public outrage and calls for justice

Weeks after Mohbad's passing, there was a surge of outrage and public outcry. Fans and loved ones staged demonstrations calling for an inquiry into the circumstances that led to his death. In Nigeria, social media evolved into a forum for discussions on the dark side of fame, paternity fraud, backstabbing, and parenting.

As calls for accountability for systemic problems within the music industry as well as for individuals personally involved in Mohbad's life increased, the hashtag #JusticeForMohbad became popular on a number of platforms. Discussions regarding how artists are treated, how parents raise their children, and medical negligence on the part of some hospitals were spurred by this movement.

Investigations and legal proceedings

Investigations concerning Mohbad's death are on the back burner. Although the police have said severally that they are investigating, they have not made much headway. Concerned individuals and the relatives of several deceased artists have voiced their dissatisfaction with Nigeria's investigative process, which frequently leaves bereaved families without closure.

Legal experts have stated that it can be difficult to prove foul play in these kinds of incidents. Investigators have a great deal of responsibility to make connections between seemingly unrelated details. Transparency may also be hampered by possible influences from influential members of the entertainment industry and perhaps the late singer's wife, Omowunmi.

The role of social media

The story of Mohbad has been sustained in large part thanks to social media. Fans, celebrities, and concerned citizens always took to their X and Instagram accounts to express their sadness and demand answers on the progress of attaining justice for the singer. Influencers and famous people have also advocated for justice for the late artist by using their platforms to express their thoughts about his passing.

Contract signing in the music industry

The passing of Mohbad rekindled conversations between signees and record labels over contract signing. When signing contracts, many artists encounter difficulties. Some have experienced bullying, deception, and being forced to sign long-term contracts with one record label even when it does not benefit them.

Will justice ever prevail for Mohbad?

Many people are left wondering whether justice will ever be served as Mohbad's death anniversary is finally here yet much progress hasn't been made as to what led to his untimely death.

Justice will be served, but only if comprehensive investigations and societal transformation are undertaken. Helping individuals while they are still living, listening to what they have to say, and providing assistance when needed are all things that require collective effort.

It's unclear if justice will win out in the end, but one thing is certain: Mohbad's narrative has sparked a movement that will never be forgotten.

GA