The Afrobeat community is in mourning. The untimely demise of rising star MohBad, known off-stage as Ilerioluwa Aloba, has left a void that’s being felt in Nigeria and globally. With the circumstances of his death shrouded in mystery, hundreds are seeking answers and demanding justice.
The Spark of Protests
In Ibadan and Asaba, MohBad’s fans have turned their grief into action, joining a growing number of protestors across southern Nigeria. Their unified call? Justice for the Afrobeat sensation who left too soon. While the pain is palpable, it’s matched by the determination for answers.
Lagos, where MohBad breathed his last, is witnessing governmental action. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to unveiling the truth is evident. By inviting the nation’s secret police into the fray, the governor has signalled the gravity of the situation. As investigations intensify, the truth mustn’t remain in the shadows.
The Controversy: Music Industry Under Scrutiny
While the death of any artist is a blow to the industry, MohBad’s case brings a tinge of controversy. His exit from Marlian Records and the subsequent feud with former boss Naira Marley have been spotlighted.
With videos detailing MohBad’s grievances with Marlian Records, many are connecting dots, questioning whether industry bullying played a role in the series of events leading to his death. The accusations against Naira Marley, despite his calls for a rigorous investigation, further muddy the waters.
A Meteoric Rise Cut Short
MohBad, or “Imole”, which translates to ‘light’ in Yoruba, was beginning to shine the brightest. Since making waves in 2019, he became a household name in the Afrobeat scene, garnering fans with his unique baritone, hard-hitting, street-savvy lyrics. His hits, KPK (Ko Por Ke) and Ponmo stood out because of their catchiness and the authenticity he brought to his craft.
Yet, it was not just the high life for MohBad. Run-ins with the law, accusations of deliberate sabotage, and altercations marred his journey. The harrowing incident with music promoter Samson Balogun, for instance, is a testament to the trials he faced.
A Legacy That Lives On
Despite the controversies, what remains undebatable is MohBad’s impact. As protests surge in southern Nigeria and plans of similar demonstrations in Nairobi and London, MohBad’s influence and reach are undeniable.
The fund set up for his five-month-old son, Imole, further showcases the tight-knit Afrobeat community’s unity and support. As fans and colleagues rally behind the young MohBad, they ensure his legacy lives on and send a clear message: the Afrobeat community stands united in grief and action.
As the world waits for answers, the life and times of MohBad serve as a potent reminder of the cutthroat nature of the music industry. But, in the face of adversity, his light refuses to dim.