New revelations have surfaced in the investigation into the death of Nigerian singer, Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, as the forensic pathologist handling his case has ruled out drug abuse as the cause of death.
During the resumed coroner’s inquest at the Magistrate Court in Ikorodu, Lagos State, the expert disclosed that findings from Mohbad’s toxicology and autopsy tests do not support earlier speculations that substance abuse led to his untimely demise. This latest development has sparked fresh conversations among fans, the entertainment industry, and the public at large, all seeking justice for the late music star.
The pathologist, who testified anonymously for security reasons, explained that while no traces of illicit drugs were found in Mohbad’s system, the actual cause of death remains “uncertain” due to the advanced decomposition of the singer’s body before the autopsy was conducted. According to the witness, Mohbad’s remains were exhumed several weeks after his burial, making it difficult to detect certain vital signs or physiological changes that could have pointed to a conclusive cause of death.
“In cases like this, time is a very important factor,” the pathologist stated. “Decomposition can obscure key findings. However, the toxicology report was crucial in ruling out drug overdose or abuse as a factor.”
The witness added that although certain physical findings suggested that Mohbad may have suffered from infections and injuries prior to his death, there was no evidence directly linking them to his final moments. He highlighted that complications from an untreated infection, combined with external physical trauma, could not be ruled out entirely but were not definitive based on the available forensic evidence.
Mohbad’s death, which occurred on September 12, 2023, at the age of 27, had initially been shrouded in controversy. Videos showing the singer being bullied and assaulted circulated widely on social media, fueling public outrage and suspicion of foul play. Many fans and fellow artistes accused former associates and record label executives of contributing to his distress in the months leading up to his death.
The Lagos State Government swiftly ordered an investigation and a full coroner’s inquest to unravel the circumstances surrounding his passing. Since then, several individuals have been questioned, and the Lagos State Police Command has continued to update the public on progress made.
The pathologist’s fresh testimony sheds new light on the matter, dispelling persistent rumors that Mohbad’s death was self-inflicted through substance abuse — a narrative that some parties had attempted to push in the early days after the tragedy.
Legal representatives of the Aloba family welcomed the new findings. Speaking to journalists after the session, one of the family lawyers, Taiwo Odumosu, expressed optimism that the truth was gradually emerging.
“We are relieved that the toxicology report has confirmed what we have always known — that Mohbad was not a drug addict,” Odumosu said. “He was a victim, not only of physical harassment but possibly of professional negligence. We remain committed to seeking full justice for him.”
Meanwhile, Mohbad’s father, Joseph Aloba, also reacted emotionally to the pathologist’s statement. “They tried to destroy my son’s name even after death,” he lamented. “But God is exposing the truth little by little.”
On social media, fans have rallied once again, trending hashtags like #JusticeForMohbad and #WeRememberMohbad across platforms. Prominent figures in the music industry, including Zlatan Ibile and Bella Shmurda, reiterated calls for thorough investigations and for those responsible, either through direct action or neglect, to be held accountable.
Observers note that while the ruling out of drug abuse is a significant development, the road to final justice remains long and complex. The inquest continues to explore other possible causes of death, including allegations of physical assault, negligence by medical personnel, and emotional trauma resulting from alleged industry bullying.
The Lagos State Coroner has adjourned the proceedings to a later date to allow further testimonies from medical experts, law enforcement agents, and witnesses who were close to the deceased in his final days.
As the investigation progresses, the Aloba family, Mohbad’s fans, and the larger public continue to await comprehensive answers. What is clear now is that the young star, whose music touched millions, did not fall to the demons of drug addiction, as some narratives had claimed.
Instead, the true circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s death demand further scrutiny, reflection, and, ultimately, justice.