Entertainment

Mohbad: I’ll return to Nigeria to clear my name, says Naira Marley

Published

3 years ago

September 26, 2023

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Singer Naira Marley says he is making arrangements to return to Nigeria to assist the ongoing investigation into the death of Mohbad.

Mohbad, the former Marlian Records signee, died on September 12 and was buried the next day.

Marley, the Marlian Records head huncho, is one of the persons of interest in the death of Mohbad.

In a lengthy statement shared on his Instagram handle on Tuesday evening, Marley said he has been “out of the country since August 31, 2023”.

He said he will honour the police invitation and fully cooperate with investigation by “giving my version of the events”.

Marley also insisted that “I have no hand in Mohbad’s death” and “certainly have no reason to be a fugitive”.

Full statement below:

“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 has 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 the irreparable 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 had passed.

“I have chosen no to say anything since due to being distraught over his dean and in order not to jeopardize the investigation being carried out by the government agencies.

“In addition, I have been out of the country since the 31st of August, 2023 and I’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 I 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 fueling 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 of scenario of attempting to set someone up is not novel in the industry as other great musicians have experienced the same and came out better and stronger. Mine will not be an exception as I am innocent of the accusations.

“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 oneRPM.

“Legal efforts were made to reconcile his concerns regarding the work we had done together.

“The rumors 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 will 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 artists ever fought or mistreated Mohbad. I share my deepest condolences to the family.

“Let’s be mindful as we seek justice to focus on supporting the police and authorities with relevant information and evidence surrounding his death so that those responsible will be apprehended. I am positive that at the end of the day, the truth will prevail and I shall be exonerated.

“My lawyers are already in touch with the police and government agencies and will support in every way necessary.

“Without a doubt I will honor his memory and I promise to do right by him and his family.”

The Marlian Record label boss earlier said although they had “disagreements, no harm whatsoever was wished on Mohbad”.

Thousands of Nigerians have demanded justice for Mohbad in nationwide protests.

The Lagos police inaugurated a 13-man special investigation team to probe Mohbad’s death on September 18.

On September 21, the police exhumed Mohbad’s corpse for autopsy and are awaiting the results.

Entertainment

BREAKING: Veteran actor Olu Jacobs dies at 84

Published

4 days ago

September 16, 2026

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Veteran actor, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.

Jacobs’ passing was disclosed by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, in a post on Instagram on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, saying the family was grateful for his life and asking the public to respect their privacy.

“It is with gratitude to God for a life well lived and fought, that we announce the passing of our dear husband, father, grandfather and uncle. The Lion of Lufodo.

Oludotun Baiyewun Jacobs (MFR)

11/07/1942-16/09/2026

We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our families privacy at this time.”

Olu Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s most prominent veteran actors, with a career spanning theatre, television and film.

He was also a film executive and a major figure in the development of Nigeria’s contemporary film industry.

Olu Jacobs was widely recognised for his commanding performances and roles across Nigerian and international productions, earning him a lasting place in the country’s entertainment history.

Entertainment

Nollywood actress Tope Osoba laid to rest in Iperu Remo

Published

1 week ago

September 10, 2026

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The remains of late Nollywood actress, Tope Osoba, were laid to rest on Thursday in her hometown of Iperu Remo, Ogun State, weeks after her death.

The burial service was held at Akesan Club, Iperu Remo, after her body left the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OOUTH), Sagamu.

The remains were were later interred at the Iperu Remo Cemetery.

Colleagues, friends and family, all dressed in white, gathered to pay their last respects to the actress.

Osoba’s death was announced on August 5, months after she underwent breast cancer surgery.

Following her passing, the family initially set August 13, 2026, for the burial, following a candlelight procession and an artistes’ tribute night in her honour on August 11.

The burial was postponed to allow further arrangements and the resolution of outstanding matters.

Prominent Nollywood figures present at the funeral included Foluke Daramola, Kunle Afod and Joke Jigan.

Osoba was known for her roles in Yoruba movies.

Her passing drew tributes from colleagues, who described her as dedicated and passionate about the industry.

Entertainment

Another Nollywood actress, Atinuke Kareem, dies after battling cancer

Published

3 weeks ago

September 1, 2026

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The sad mood among members of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), has continued to linger with the announcement of the death of Nollywood actress, Atinuke Kareem, who passed away after battling breast cancer.

The news of her passing was officially announced on Tuesday in a statement by her colleague and the Executive Governor of TAMPAN Ogun State, Owolabi Ajasa.

The statement was accompanied by a video clip of Kareem seeking support and prayers during her battle with breast cancer, highlighting the physical toll of the illness on her.

“I’m a breast cancer patient. It has been going on for a while. My family has spent a lot of money; I’ve come to seek help. The association I belong to, TAMPAN, has tried too, but it’s not enough,” Kareem said in the video.

“Don’t allow me to die this way; I have two young children. Nigerians, please help me with any amount you can use to help.”

In the release signed by the state Public Relations Officer, Femi Solaja, on behalf of Ajasa, the association expressed deep appreciation to colleagues, fans, and well-wishers who provided financial and moral support during the actress’s medical battle.

“We sincerely appreciate everyone who contributed financially, offered prayers, encouragement, and support towards the treatment of our dear colleague, Atinuke Remilekun Kareem,” the statement read.

“Your kindness and sacrifice during her difficult moment meant so much to her family and all of us. We are deeply grateful.”

Tampan further expressed sorrow over her demise, describing it as an irrecoverable loss that members must accept as the will of God.

“Sadly, despite all our efforts and prayers, Atinuke has passed on and answered the final call.

“We cannot question the Almighty God. We can only submit to His will and pray that He grants her eternal rest and gives her family, colleagues, and loved ones the strength to bear this painful loss. Rest in peace, Atinuke Remilekun Kareem,” the statement concluded.

The actress’ death comes barely over a week after the Yoruba film industry was thrown into mourning following the death of veteran actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, who also succumbed to stage-four cancer.