The family of the late singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, has renewed its call for a transparent and independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.
In a statement issued by the family, headed by Omolayo Aloba and Mohbad’s father, Joseph Aloba, the family also directed the singer’s partner, Wunmi Adebanjo, to stop using the Aloba surname until a court-ordered DNA test is completed.
The family emphasized its commitment to a comprehensive inquiry into Mohbad’s death and announced the appointment of new legal counsel to handle all estate and DNA-related matters.
“The Aloba family remains resolute in its demand for a transparent, independent, and comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s death. The family is committed to seeing that justice is served, the truth uncovered, and those responsible held accountable,” the statement said.
Oladayo Ogungbe, Esq., of Ogungbe & Ogungbe Attorneys, was appointed as the family’s official legal representative for all DNA and estate matters. Dr. Wahab Shittu, SAN, will continue to represent the family in communications with investigative authorities regarding the inquiry into Mohbad’s death.
Regarding Mohbad’s estate, the family named three administrators to manage his assets, royalties, and intellectual property: Ajewole Aloba, Rasaq Famuyiwa, and Alonge Aloba. The family stated that Wunmi Adebanjo could join the administration if a valid court-ordered DNA test confirms that Liam is Mohbad’s biological son.
The statement also clarified that no statutory or customary marriage occurred between Mohbad and Wunmi, as required Yoruba traditional rites, including the payment of bride price, were never completed. The family called on the public to respect the judicial process and noted that the DNA verification aims to ensure legal clarity and fairness.
A new burial and memorial date for Mohbad will be announced once legal and family matters are concluded.
Reacting to the family’s directive, Wunmi’s legal representative, Kabir Akingbolu, described the restriction on using the Aloba surname as illegal and unnecessary. He said the family had repeatedly failed to follow through on court-ordered DNA tests and argued that Wunmi has the legal right to continue using the surname.
“This is the third attempt by the family to dictate where and how the DNA test should be conducted. We are ready for the DNA any time, any day. The child is not a bastard, and my client has nothing to fear; she is a decent woman,” Akingbolu said.
The dispute highlights the ongoing legal battle between Mohbad’s family and his partner over the paternity of their son and the management of the singer’s estate. Mohbad, a former signee of Marlian Music, died on September 12, 2023, at the age of 27, with the circumstances of his death sparking widespread controversy.
Following his death, the Lagos State Police Command established a special investigation team to probe the case, and the family later sought legal intervention to confirm paternity and settle estate matters.
