Rotimi Ige, Author at Tribune Online

The Break The Silence Foundation, led by its convener, Yomi Fabiyi has demanded the arrest and questioning of the wife and other family members of popular Nigerian artiste, Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Promise Aloba, famously known as Mohbad. Fabiyi stated this during a world press conference earlier Wednesday, addressing the unresolved death of the late singer. The event brought together members of the press, activists, Nigerian youths, and human rights advocates, emphasising the urgent demand for justice and accountability in the tragic case. Mohbad, who passed away on September 12, 2023, has remained a subject of national discourse due to suspicions of foul play surrounding his death. Despite public outcry and an ongoing investigation, his death remains unresolved, leaving fans, family, and activists frustrated. Yomi Fabiyi, speaking at the conference, lamented the slow pace of investigations and raised concerns about potential obstruction of justice. "Mohbad’s death cannot be allowed to fade into the archives of unresolved deaths in Nigeria. "The#JusticeForMohbad movement stands as a testament to the collective demand for a transparent and honest investigation into the circumstances surrounding his passing," Fabiyi asserted. Fabiyi disclosed new developments, including an alleged attempt by a close associate of Mohbad’s family to sell incriminating video evidence for N3 million. The video purportedly captured a violent altercation between Mohbad and his wife, Cynthia Wunmi Aloba, which may have led to his fatal injuries. He detailed how he reported the matter to the Lagos State Police Command and the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) heading the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID). However, he expressed disappointment at the lack of progress and alleged deliberate efforts to suppress evidence. The convener further revealed that a suspect, Habeeb Damola Ayinde, admitted to impersonating Mohbad’s younger brother, Adura Aloba, on social media to demand money for the video. Despite this confession, Fabiyi questioned the thoroughness of the investigation, citing inconsistencies in police handling of the case. The Foundation issued a series of demands aimed at ensuring justice for Mohbad: "Immediate Arrest and Questioning of Key Individuals: The Foundation called for the arrest and thorough questioning of Cynthia Wunmi Aloba and Adura Aloba as primary suspects in the case. "Corroboration of Witness Statements: Mohbad’s aunt, Mrs. Folashade, should be invited to corroborate her account of finding blood-soaked blankets on the day of his death. "Federal Intervention: The Foundation urged President Bola Tinubu, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and the Inspector General of Police to transfer the case from the Lagos State Police Command if tangible progress is not made within seven days. "Fair Trial: They demanded that all key suspects be charged to court by the end of the first quarter of 2025. "Accountability for Police Officers: Officers found guilty of obstructing justice should face disciplinary action and prosecution." Fabiyi highlighted the broader implications of Mohbad’s case, warning that the lack of justice could erode public trust in Nigeria’s judicial system. He cautioned against resorting to jungle justice, emphasizing the importance of due process. "Justice for Mohbad is not just about one man; it is a fight for accountability, fairness, and the rule of law in Nigeria," Fabiyi said. Fabiyi appealed to the public, human rights organisations, and the international community to join the movement, emphasising that apathy is the greatest threat to justice. The press conference concluded with a renewed commitment to ensure that Mohbad’s death is not in vain. ALSO READ FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE Mohbad’s mother confronts Yomi Fabiyi over allegations against late singer’s brother