Nigerian rapper, Naira Marley has denied any involvement in the unfortunate death of his former signee, Mohbad.
KanyiDaily recalls that Mohbad died at the age of 27 under controversial circumstances on September 12, and was buried the following day in Lagos.
Following Mohbad’s death, netizens accused Naira Marley of instigating his friend Sam Larry and others to intimidate and harass the late singer after he exited Marlians Records.
The controversy escalated after the emergence of old videos showing Sam Larry harassing and bullying Mohbad on multiple occasions before his death.
The videos triggered outrage among Nigerians, leading to a wave of criticism directed at Naira Marley and Sam Larry on social media.
Naira Marley had previously spoken about Mohbad’s death, stressing that no harm whatsoever was wished on Monbad because he was more than just an artist, but a dear friend and brother.
In another post shared on his Instagram page, Naira Marley made it clear that he never fought or attacked Mohbad, nor did he ask anyone to bully or harass him.
Naira Marley went on to express his deep condolences to the family of the deceased, stressing that he is dedicated to proving his innocence and cooperating with the authorities to clear his name with sufficient evidence.
He said, “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 have 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 is 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 passed on.
“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.
Naira Marley also provided insight into his absence, indicating that he had been out of the country since August 31, 2023. He expressed his willingness to cooperate with the authorities,
He said, “In addition, I have been out of the country since 31st August, 2023 and l’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 fuelling 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.
The artist-owner of Marlian Music Label clarified that Mohbad left the label in September 2022, and his departure was accepted amicably.
Naira Marley emphasized that Marlian Music did not hinder Mohbad’s career or releases following his exit and that legal efforts were made to address any concerns related to their previous work together.
“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,” he said.
Addressing other issues, Naira Marley noted that the rumours of him being a drug lord was not true as he was also not into any occultic group.
Naira Marley stressed that neither he nor any member of his label had ever engaged in a physical altercation or mistreated Mohbad.
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 would 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.
KanyiDaily recalls that Naira Marley had previously stirred online discussions with a series of questions concerning the death of Mohbad.
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