Court Orders Substituted Service for Key Witnesses in Mohbad's Death Inquest

Coroner's Court Issues Substituted Service Order in Mohbad Death Inquest

In a significant development surrounding the mysterious death of Nigerian singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, a Coroner's Court located in Ikorodu, Lagos State, has issued an order for substituted service on six crucial witnesses. This measure was taken to ensure that key figures, who have so far been elusive, can be reached to testify in the ongoing inquest. The case has garnered wide public attention and demands for thorough investigation.

Key Witnesses Ordered to Receive Substituted Service

The witnesses named in the substituted service order include some notable individuals deeply connected to Mohbad’s life and final days. Among them are Azeez Fashola, better known as Naira Marley, and Samson Eletu, also known as Sam Larry. Both figures have been subjects of speculation and controversy related to the circumstances of Mohbad’s untimely death. Additionally, Mohbad's sister-in-law, Karimot Ogunbayo, Boluwatife Adeyemo, known by many as Darosha, and the singer’s lawyer, Oluwasanmi Falade, have been named.

Moreover, the list extends to Feyisayo Ogedengbe, the nurse who provided medical care to Mohbad in his closing days, and Fidelis Esanbor, the driver responsible for transporting him to the hospital. These individuals hold valuable insights that could illuminate the events leading to the singer's demise. Direct service attempts to these witnesses have repeatedly failed, necessitating the court's decision for substituted service.

Legal Maneuver to Ensure Witness Participation

Substituted service is a legal strategy adopted when standard methods of serving court documents prove ineffective. In this case, Mr. Wahab Shittu SAN and his legal team spearheaded the application for such a measure. Magistrate T. A. Sotobi approved the application, permitting the families of the deceased to publish the witness summonses in widely circulated national newspapers and on popular social media platforms. This approach aims to ensure that the summonses attain wide visibility and reach the intended recipients swiftly.

This court's decision underscores the high-stakes nature of the investigation into Mohbad’s passing. Ensuring the testimonies of these critical witnesses could prove pivotal in uncovering the precise causes and contributors to the tragic event. By facilitating substituted service, the court has made a decisive move to advance the inquest despite previous hurdles.

Recall of Mohbad's Wife and Investigating Officer

In addition to these developments, the Coroner's Court has also approved the recall of two crucial figures: Mohbad's widow, Wunmi, and the Investigating Police Officer, ASP Muhammad Yusuf. Both are expected to provide supplementary statements to bolster the investigative process. Wunmi, having shared deep personal connections with Mohbad, is expected to offer valuable insights into his life and mental state prior to his death. ASP Muhammad Yusuf, in his capacity as the Investigating Police Officer, is tasked with shedding light on the procedural aspects of the ongoing investigation and any new findings that may have emerged.

Mohbad's relationship with Naira Marley’s Marlian Music label, where he was formerly signed, has come under scrutiny following his death on September 12, 2023. His association with the label and subsequent disagreements have led to various speculations and concerns regarding the nature of his passing. The Lagos State Police Command's initiation of a 13-man special investigation team signifies the gravity with which the authorities are treating this case.

Onset of a Thorough Inquest

Amidst public calls for justice, the Lagos State Police Command's special investigation team has ensured robust actions, including arrests and thorough inquiries. Notably, Naira Marley and Sam Larry were among the individuals taken into custody. This development followed Mohbad's death under circumstances that prompted widespread public uproar and calls for justice.

Mohbad’s body was exhumed on September 21, 2023, as part of efforts to conduct a detailed autopsy. His death continues to be shrouded in mystery and speculation. Fans, family members, and the general public await the autopsy results to ascertain the actual cause of his demise. The findings are expected to play a crucial role in directing the subsequent phases of the investigation and judicial proceedings.

Public and Media Reactions

The case has attracted substantial media attention and public interest, with discussions rife across various platforms. Social media, in particular, has played a significant role in amplifying the calls for justice and transparency regarding Mohbad’s death. Public sentiment has largely been one of suspicion and demand for accountability from those involved or associated with the deceased singer.

Impact on the Nigerian Music Industry

Mohbad’s death has also resonated within the Nigerian music community, where he had made significant strides in his career. As a former artist under the Marlian Music label, his association with the label’s prominent figures has added layers of complexity to the investigation. Peers and fellow artists have expressed their condolences and concerns, highlighting the pressing need for clarity and justice.

Independent artists and industry stakeholders continue to voice their demands for a safe and supportive environment within the industry. The circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s death have reinvigorated conversations about artist welfare, mental health, and the roles of labels in providing a nurturing versus exploitative space.

The Path Forward

The Coroner's Court’s recent decisions mark a notable milestone in the ongoing legal proceedings. As the substituted service order takes effect and the summoned witnesses provide their testimonies, it is anticipated that new information will come to light. The expanded testimonies from Wunmi and ASP Yusuf are awaited with particular interest, as they hold the potential to provide further clarity and direction.

In conclusion, as the inquest into Mohbad’s death progresses, the emphasis remains on achieving a fair and comprehensive investigation. The Nigerian public, alongside the global community, continues to monitor developments closely. The outcome of this high-profile case could set significant precedents for handling similar incidents within the entertainment industry and beyond. The court's proactive measures underscore a commitment to uncovering the truth and delivering justice for Mohbad and his loved ones.