Nigerian police have granted bail to two prominent Afrobeat stars, Naira Marley (Azeez Fashola) and Sam Larry (Balogun Samson), who were held in custody for several weeks in connection with the death of fellow singer MohBad (Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba). The police spokesperson confirmed the release on Saturday, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding MohBad’s demise on September 12 at the age of 27.
Despite the passing of weeks, the details surrounding MohBad’s death remain shrouded in mystery, fueling speculation across social media platforms. In October, the police summoned Naira Marley and Sam Larry, who are now the focus of the ongoing investigation.
While initially remanded in custody, the Afrobeat stars were released on Friday after meeting the parole conditions set by the court, according to Benjamin Hundeyin, the spokesperson for the Lagos state police. Media reports indicate that the court imposed a bail bond of 20 million nairas (22,000 euros) and mandated the surrender of their passports. Additionally, the court ordered them to make weekly appearances at the State Criminal Investigation Department.
The arrests extend beyond the Afrobeat stars, as five individuals in total have been apprehended in connection to MohBad’s death. In early October, an unregistered nurse, Feyisayo Ogedengbe, was taken into custody, with police accusing her of administering medications to MohBad in a “professionally negligent” manner. Ogedengbe, invited by one of MohBad’s friends to provide medical assistance at his home, allegedly administered three injections, including antibiotics, resulting in vomiting and convulsions.
MohBad’s career soared in 2019 when he joined Marlian Music, Naira Marley’s record label. However, in 2022, MohBad parted ways with the label due to disagreements with the owner. In response to the social media speculation surrounding MohBad’s death, Naira Marley took to X (formerly Twitter), stating that he had returned to Lagos to “assist the authorities with the ongoing investigation” and expressed hope for the truth to be uncovered and justice to prevail.
