The Larry Omodia Foundation for Justice Reform has called for legislation to provide free DNA testing in Nigeria, citing the unresolved circumstances surrounding the death of Nigerian rapper Mohbad, whose real name was Ilerioluwa Aloba.
The foundation made the call during a visit to Ikere-Ekiti, Ekiti State, on Thursday, where they sought the intervention of the paramount ruler, Oba Adejimi Alagbado, in uncovering the truth behind the musician’s death.
Larry Omodia, the foundation’s founder and CEO, urged the monarch to engage the Nigerian Inspector General of Police and leverage his position to demand justice for Mohbad.
He also requested that the ruler pressure Joseph Aloba, Mohbad’s father, to complete the DNA test ordered by the court, and to facilitate Mohbad’s proper burial without further delays.
“We ask Your Majesty to engage the Inspector General of Police on behalf of the world,” Omodia said.
“Use your office to demand that Joseph Aloba, your son, complete the DNA test as requested by the court and Nigerians. Additionally, we urge you to ensure that Mohbad is laid to rest and not kept from his final journey.”
Omodia also called on the community to encourage Joseph Aloba to return to Ikere-Ekiti and invoke the spirit of Mohbad to reveal the truth about his death. On the topic of DNA testing, he stressed its importance in the case, noting its broader societal relevance.
“The need for DNA testing is crucial,” Omodia stated. “We want DNA tests to clear up the confusion surrounding Mohbad’s wife, who has been accused of promiscuity and possibly knowing the circumstances of her husband’s death.
“We will advocate for a law that requires every child born in Nigeria to undergo a DNA test to confirm their paternity. This will help prevent future tragedies, as it has the potential to expose hidden truths, like in Mohbad’s case.”
The monarch of Ikere-Ekiti expressed his sorrow over Mohbad’s passing, noting the local community’s grief. He recalled that the town had hoped for Mohbad to become another success story, similar to Sade Adu, a famous artist from the area.
“It’s a painful loss, and we have not yet come to terms with it,” the monarch said. “We are grateful for your humanitarian efforts, and we will carefully consider your request.”
Chief Sapetu, Prof. Babatola Olufemi, the head of the council of chiefs, acknowledged that the foundation’s visit had brought the issue of Mohbad’s death closer to home.
He emphasized that the kingdom would review the situation and determine the best course of action.
“Mohbad is our son, and his death has deeply affected us,” Chief Sapetu said. “We will consider your appeal and decide how we can contribute to resolving this matter.”
The community of Ikere-Ekiti has pledged to assist in uncovering the truth about Mohbad’s death, while the Larry Omodia Foundation continues to advocate for mandatory DNA testing for every child born in Nigeria, in light of the controversy surrounding the paternity of Mohbad’s son.
