Breaking Silence
In the wake of the tragic passing of emerging artist Ileri “Mohbad” Oluwa, Nigerian singer and songwriter Azeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, has broken his silence regarding allegations linking him to Mohbad’s untimely demise.
Taking to his verified Instagram handle, @nairamarley, Naira Marley expressed his shock and grief over the loss of Mohbad and vehemently denied any involvement in the young artist’s death.
“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,” Naira Marley stated. “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.”
Condolences
The controversial artist went on to describe the ongoing turmoil as traumatic, not only for him but for many who were affected by Mohbad’s loss. Naira Marley offered his condolences to Mohbad’s family and expressed hope that they would find the strength to cope with their loss.
Naira Marley made it clear that he had no role in Mohbad’s death, either directly or indirectly, and emphasised that such incidents were not unusual in the music industry.
Differences
He acknowledged that, like in other industries, disagreements and disputes could arise among colleagues, but he stressed that these differences had never escalated to the extent portrayed in some reports.
He also revealed that legal channels were being used to address business disputes between them before Mohbad’s passing. Naira Marley explained his silence on the matter, citing his distraught state and the ongoing government investigation.
“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,” Naira Marley stated.
“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.”
Confidence
The singer firmly believed that there were individuals with a vendetta against him, attempting to manipulate public opinion and frame him for Mohbad’s death. He expressed confidence that the truth would be revealed in due time, and he would be exonerated.
Naira Marley concluded his statement by drawing attention to the unfortunate trend of attempting to set up artists in the industry, asserting that he would emerge from this ordeal stronger, just as others had before him.
It is not clear whether, by saying Mohbad’s death was not unusual, Naira Marley meant that mysterious or unexplained deaths were normal. Is he also implying thay the videos and testimonies of bullying label signees were part of norms in the industry?
The circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s death continue to be the subject of investigation, and the world awaits the outcome as Naira Marley prepares to return to Nigeria to cooperate with authorities.
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