Olajide Adediran, popularly referred to as Jandor, who contested as the Lagos State governorship candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 elections, has appealed for a thorough investigation into the unexpected passing of the rising Afrobeats artist, Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, better known as Mohbad.
Jandor expressed his concerns over the circumstances surrounding the 27-year-old singer’s death and the subsequent public outcry, emphasizing that it has cast a shadow over the reputation of Nigeria’s music industry. He called upon law enforcement agencies to conduct a meticulous inquiry into the matter to ensure justice is served.
This statement was released on Tuesday evening by Gbenga Ogunleye, the Head of Media and Communications for the JANDOR4GOVERNOR Campaign Organization.
Adediran highlighted that the announcement of Mohbad’s passing was shrouded in secrecy and raised questions of potential foul play, including allegations of complicity within the music industry.
The statement read in part, “Adediran described the unfortunate incident and the attendant public outcry on attempts to cover up the matter as a huge drawback to the entertainment industry in the country. He advocated that law enforcement agencies need to unravel the truth and ensure no case of injustice is allowed by carrying out a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.
He laments the untimely death of such a budding talent and the anxiety among music fans on the perceived dangers and shady undercutting going on in the entertainment industry. ‘This is a big blow to the image of our music industry,’ he said.”
Jandor also expressed his condolences to the family and fans of the late Mohbad, offering his sympathies for their irreparable loss.
Earlier reports indicated that Mohbad, a former signee of Marlian Records owned by Naira Marley, passed away in Lagos State on September 12, 2023, and was laid to rest in Ikorodu the following day.
The Lagos State Police Command formed a 13-man panel to investigate the exact cause of his death, while Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu invited the Department of State Services to participate in the probe. Sanwo-Olu vowed that those found responsible would face legal consequences once the investigations concluded.
Lagos State Police Commissioner Idowu Owohunwa also pledged to identify and hold accountable all individuals connected to Mohbad’s death.