The family of late Nigerian singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, has renewed its call for a transparent and independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.
In a statement signed by the family head, Omolayo Aloba, and Mohbad’s father, Joseph Aloba, the family also directed the late singer’s partner, Wunmi Adebanjo, to stop using the “Aloba” surname until a court-ordered DNA test confirms that her son, Liam, is Mohbad’s biological child.
According to the statement, the family has appointed new legal representatives to oversee all matters related to Mohbad’s estate and the ongoing paternity dispute.
“The Aloba family remains resolute in its demand for a transparent, independent, and comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s death. The family is committed to ensuring that justice is served, the truth uncovered, and those responsible held accountable,” the statement read.
The family announced the appointment of Oladayo Ogungbe, Esq., of Ogungbe & Ogungbe Attorneys, as its official legal representative for all estate and DNA-related issues. It also confirmed that Dr. Wahab Shittu (SAN) would continue representing the family in dealings with investigative authorities.
Three administrators—Ajewole Aloba, Rasaq Famuyiwa, and Alonge Aloba—were named to manage the late singer’s assets, royalties, and intellectual property. One additional position will remain open for Wunmi Adebanjo if the DNA test proves Liam’s paternity.
“The appointed administrators are authorised to apply for letters of administration to manage all estate assets, including royalties, bank holdings, and musical intellectual property,” the family added.
They also clarified that no statutory or traditional marriage was conducted between Mohbad and Wunmi, explaining that the required Yoruba marriage rites were never completed. The family insisted that Wunmi must stop using the “Aloba” surname in public and private records until paternity is legally verified.
The family further stated that if the DNA test confirms that Mohbad fathered Liam, both mother and child would be fully recognised in all estate and family affairs. It also promised to announce a new burial and memorial date after legal processes are completed.
Reacting to the family’s statement, Wunmi’s lawyer, Kabir Akingbolu, described the directive as unlawful and misleading. He accused the Aloba family of deliberately avoiding the DNA process despite multiple court orders and communications.
“They were the ones who went to court for the DNA test. The court granted the order, but they never showed up. We wrote several letters to them, and they ignored all. Later, they requested the test be done abroad; the court approved, yet they still refused to appear. We are ready for the DNA any time, any day,” Akingbolu said.
He also rejected the family’s order restraining Wunmi from using the Aloba surname, stressing that she has the legal right to retain it.
“Nobody can stop her from bearing Aloba. That was her husband’s name, and she is legally entitled to it. The Supreme Court has ruled that no one owns a surname exclusively. There are many Alobas in the world. My client is not running from the DNA test; she has nothing to hide,” he stated.
The renewed clash deepens the ongoing dispute between Mohbad’s family and his widow over the paternity of their son and control of the singer’s estate.
Mohbad died on September 12, 2023, at the age of 27, under controversial circumstances that continue to attract public attention and calls for justice.
