REPS ORDERS PROBE INTO THE DEATH OF MOHBAD

The House of Representatives has ordered for a comprehensive and holistic probe into the cause of death of Late Ilerioluwa Olademeji Aloba A.K.A Mohbad and calls on NCC to protect the late singer's songs.

This according to the House is in a bid to Protect the Rights of Young Promising Artists in Contracts with Their Record Labels. This followed motion of urgent public Importance moved by Representatives Babajimi Benson from Lagos state (APC) Rep Benson said this has become importance following the public outcry and call for justice for the late musician. See full text below: The House, “Notes that the Nigerian music industry mourns the loss of the talented artist Ilerioluwa Olademeji Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, who tragically passed away under mysterious circumstances on September 12, 2023, and has continued to make headlines and dominate discussions across and beyond the nation” “Also notes the heartfelt protests, a procession of youth chanting his name, and the call for an investigation as they marched to a tribute concert, with numerous musicians in attendance. It is evident that Mohbad’s fans are struggling to come to terms with his untimely demise. Mohbad, also known as Imole, meaning “light” in Yoruba, was an artist who sang of peace and light” “Further notes that Mohbad left his record label, Marlian Records, owned by Azeez Fashola (Naira Marley), in 2022, citing various grievances, including unpaid royalties. This issue is indicative of a broader problem in which artists encounter challenges asserting their rights.” “Also, aware that a disturbing industry practice has come to the fore. Evidence of mistreatment highlights the struggles of young artists who, in their quest for success, become entangled in parasitic contracts and face bullying when they seek to exit these agreements. “Also concerned that Mohbad’s case is not an isolated incident. Many artists in Nigeria find themselves ensnared in unfavorable contractual agreements, limiting their creative freedom and financial growth. This situation can lead to disputes and, at times, even violence. Cognizant that the Nigerian music industry lacks substantial institutional funding, pushing many artists into unscrupulous contracts with record labels. Addressing this issue is vital for the industry’s growth and sustainability. 

Also cognizant that Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) functions encompass copyright registration, law enforcement, education, royalty management, international collaboration, legal advocacy, and policy development, hence should be protecting copyright and promoting artists’ interests in Nigeria. Disturbed that most of the proceeds of the late artist are still going to the Marlian Music Group, and there have been no moves from any agency to protect the Estate of the late singer who is currently the 46th best-selling digital artiste in the world.

Prayers: 

1. Urges the House to observe one minute of silence in honor of Mohbad and and gather information regarding the circumstances leading to his demise. 

2. Monitor the ongoing investigation of Mohbad’s death, particularly the allegations of harassment and unpaid royalties. 

3. Invite the Nigeria Copyright Commission (NCC) to put measures in place immediately to protect the rights of Mohbad’s songs and lyrics, addressing copyright infringements and ensuring the proper management of his musical assets while securing his son’s benefits from his musical legacy. 

4. Collaborate with relevant stakeholders, including record labels, artists, legal experts, and industry associations, to develop and implement industry-wide guidelines that ensure fair treatment, transparent contractual agreements, and proper compensation for artists, reviewing existing copyright and contract laws in Nigeria, identifying gaps or areas in need of reform. 

5. Mandate the committee on Justice and Legislative Compliance to ensure compliance The lawmakers prayers and motion is coming hours after Perez Medcare Hospital, where the late musician Mohbad was purportedly transported on Tuesday, September 12, he was brought in dead. Mohbad was taken in about 4:30 p.m. on the aforementioned day, according to a statement issued on the hospital’s official Instagram page on Monday evening. In response to rumors, Perez Medcare refuted accusations that the singer was admitted to the hospital. Perez Medcare Hospital, the medical facility where the late singer, Mohbad was allegedly rushed to on Tuesday, September 12, has stated that he was brought in dead. The hospital in a statement released on its official Instagram page on Monday evening, explained that Mohbad was brought in around 4:30 pm on the said day with no sign of life in him.