House of Representatives Calls Naira Marley for Inquiry on Royalties

The House of Representatives has issued a summons to Azeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, concerning the royalties of the late singer, Ilerioluwa Aloba, widely recognized as Mohbad.

In an official letter dated October 26, and signed by the clerk, Yusuf Ibrahim, a joint committee of the Green Chamber, comprising committees on Youth, Justice, and Legislative Compliance, requested Naira Marley and the legal representatives of the late singer to appear before them on October 31.

This development comes in the wake of numerous appeals from Nigerians over the past weeks, urging Naira Marley to fulfill his obligations regarding Mohbad's royalties.

The legislators emphasized that their invitation aims to ensure that the family members of the late singer receive the compensation rightfully owed to them.

"The House Committees on Justice, Youth, and Legislative Compliance invite you and the legal team of Mohbad for an interactive meeting session. This is in connection to a resolution passed by the House of Representatives during their plenary session on Tuesday, September 26, 2023. The resolution pertains to the circumstances surrounding the royalties and other benefits of Mohbad, and to ascertain the extent of your engagement with other relevant copyright organizations. The information gathered will serve as a guide for the committee in determining further legislative action.

In light of the above, you are cordially invited for an interactive session with the chairman, Committee on Justice, Youth, and Legislative Compliance," reads a portion of the letter.

On Tuesday, September 12, the late singer, who was previously signed to Naira Marley's Marlian record label, tragically passed away under mysterious circumstances.

Following this unfortunate event, Naira Marley, accused of defaming and harassing the deceased singer, was apprehended by the Lagos State Police Command and placed in custody.

In addition to Naira Marley, the Command also detained a music promoter, Balogun Eletu, known as Sam Larry. Many had suspected him of having a dispute with the deceased.

However, both Naira Marley and Sam Larry vehemently denied any involvement in Mohbad's untimely demise.

On Wednesday, October 4, a magistrate court in Lagos directed that Naira Marley and Sam Larry remain in police detention. They were ordered to be held without bail for a period of 30 days, pending the conclusion of the investigation.