The government’s legislative branch has now intervened to make sure his royalties are paid and justice is served.
To protect the royalties from the music and lyrics of the late singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, better known as Mohbad, the House of Representatives has extended an invitation to the Nigeria Copyright Commission (NCC).
An update on the singer’s legal battle with Naira Marley’s company to reclaim his royalties and music catalogues was previously provided by the singer’s management.
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According to the singer’s management, he was in court before he passed away to get back most of his songs and owed royalties.
Recent developments include the acceptance of a resolution by Rep. Babajimi Benson (APC-Lagos) to collect his royalties, which was brought up during the plenary session’s resumed on Tuesday in Abuja.
In making the motion, Benson drew attention to the terrible and puzzling death of Mohbad on September 12. This unfortunate incident has continued to make headlines and generate debates both inside and outside of the country.
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Babajimi Benson noted that there have been processions and protests by young people calling for a thorough investigation while chanting Mohbad’s name. These events culminated in a tribute concert that many performers attended.
While pointing out that Mohbad, also known as “Imole” in Yoruba, was an advocate for peace and illumination through his music, he stressed that the artist’s admirers are still coming to terms with the artist’s sudden passing.
The House of Rep member further clarified that Mohbad split from Marlian Records, owned by Azeez Fashola (Naira Marley), his record company, in 2022, alleging a number of issues, including unpaid royalties.
In his words ;
“Mohbad left his record label, Marlian Records, owned by Azeez Fashola (Naira Marley), in 2022, citing various grievances, including unpaid royalties. This issue is indicative of a broader problem in which artists encounter challenges asserting their rights.
“Most of the proceeds of the late artist are still going to the Marlian Music Group, and there have been no moves from any agency to protect the Estate of the late singer who is currently the 46th best-selling digital artiste in the world,” he stated.
“A disturbing industry practice has come to the fore. Evidence of mistreatment highlights the struggles of young artists who, in their quest for success, become entangled in parasitic contracts and face bullying when they seek to exit these agreements”
