The family of the late singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, professionally known as Mohbad, has reiterated its call for an independent and transparent investigation into the circumstances of his passing.
In a statement released on Tuesday and signed by family head Omolayo Aloba and Mohbad’s father, Joseph Aloba, the family also instructed Mohbad’s partner, Wunmi Adebanjo, to refrain from using the Aloba surname until the results of a court-ordered DNA test are finalized.
The family emphasized its determination to ensure a thorough investigation into Mohbad’s death and announced the appointment of new legal counsel to handle all matters related to his estate and the DNA case.
“The Aloba family remains steadfast in its demand for a transparent, independent, and comprehensive inquiry into the circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s death. Our goal is to uncover the truth, ensure justice is served, and hold those responsible accountable,” the statement read.
Oladayo Ogungbe, Esq., of Ogungbe & Ogungbe Attorneys, has been appointed as the family’s official legal representative for all estate and DNA-related issues. Additionally, Dr. Wahab Shittu, SAN, will continue to represent the family in dealings with investigative authorities regarding Mohbad’s death.
Regarding the management of Mohbad’s estate, the family named Ajewole Aloba, Rasaq Famuyiwa, and Alonge Aloba as administrators responsible for overseeing his assets, royalties, and intellectual property. They are authorized to apply for letters of administration to legally manage the estate. The family left one position open for Wunmi Adebanjo, should a court-ordered DNA test confirm that her child, Liam, is biologically Mohbad’s.
The statement further clarified that Wunmi should refrain from using the Aloba surname publicly or privately until paternity is legally verified. The family also noted that no statutory or customary marriage existed between Mohbad and Wunmi, as the required Yoruba traditional rites, including the payment of bride price, were never completed.
“If the DNA test confirms that the deceased fathered Liam, both the child and mother will be formally recognised in the estate administration,” the statement added. The family also asked the public to remain patient and respect the judicial process, emphasizing that the DNA verification is intended to ensure fairness and legal clarity, not to target anyone personally.
A new burial and memorial date for Mohbad will be announced after all legal and family matters are settled. “The family will communicate a new plan for Mohbad’s burial and memorial once all formalities regarding the DNA case are concluded. Justice for Mohbad remains our unwavering aim, pursued through lawful and peaceful means,” the statement concluded.
In response, Wunmi Adebanjo’s legal representative, Kabir Akingbolu, criticised the family’s directive restricting his client from using the Aloba surname. He argued that the family’s statement was misleading and highlighted delays caused by the Aloba family in the DNA testing process, despite court orders.
“They requested a DNA test and obtained a court order but failed to participate. They withdrew and changed legal representation multiple times. Now they demand the test be done abroad, which we will not accept. We are ready for the DNA test anytime. My client has nothing to fear; she is a decent woman,” Akingbolu stated.
He also dismissed the family’s call for Wunmi to stop using the Aloba name, citing constitutional support for her right to retain it. “No one can prevent her from bearing the surname Aloba. The Supreme Court affirmed in Ojukwu vs Ojukwu that no single party has monopoly over a surname. They are the ones avoiding the DNA process,” he added.
The dispute marks the latest chapter in the ongoing conflict between Mohbad’s family and Wunmi over the paternity of their child and control of the singer’s estate. Mohbad passed away at 27 on September 12, 2023, and his death has sparked public controversy.
After leaving Marlian Music, owned by Naira Marley, in February 2022, Mohbad’s passing prompted the Lagos State Police Command to set up a 13-member special investigation team on September 18, 2023. Earlier reports revealed that Mohbad’s father filed an application at the Ikorodu coroner’s court seeking to determine the cause of death, along with a DNA test to resolve the paternity dispute.
