Popular Nigerian singer, Azeez Fashola aka Naira Marley on Tuesday said he is not responsible for the death of the late singer, Mohbad and he’s making arrangements to return to the country to assist the ongoing investigation over the death of his former signee.
The Marlian boss made this known in a statement released by his management team via his Instagram handle.
The singer’s sudden death has continued to spark controversies on the tail of the circumstances that surrounded it, with many alleging Naira Marley had a hand in his death following their fallout.
Reacting to the allegations and threats received since the death of Mohbad, Naira Marley denied being responsible for the death of his former signee.
The statement reads: “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 have 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 lleri’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 llerioluwa, 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 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 not to say anything since due to being distraught over his death 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 in 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 has a vendetta against me and is 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 has not stopped or interfered with his career or releases since and he has been
with one RPM. Legal efforts were made to reconcile his concerns regarding the work
we had done together.
”The rumours 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 would 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. Concerning the talent on the label, none of our artists ever fought or mistreated Mohbad.
