Mohbad: Reps Summon Naira Marley

Controversial Afrobeat singer, Naira Marley (real name, Azeez Fashola) has been summoned by the House of Representatives over compensation and royalties accruing to the late singer, Ilerioluwa Aloba (Mohbad).

The House also invited Mohbad’s manager, Jiggy Adeoye, to an interactive session slated for Tuesday, October 31.
Mohbad, a Naira Marley protegee died 12th September at the age of 27 under mysterious circumstances.

The House had resolved to wade into the matter following the adoption of a motion moved by Babajimi Benson (APC, Lagos).

Benson had called for a review of relevant laws guiding the entertainment industry as well as copyright laws while expressing concerns about the contracts and agreements that entertainers are compelled to sign.

During the debate on the matter at the plenary session on Thursday, the lawmakers also gave assurances to Mohbad’s family of its commitment to secure proper compensation and royalties from his musical works.

The House further resolved to monitor the investigation surrounding his death and royalties accruing to him.

In a letter dated October 26, 2023, and signed by the Committee’s Clark Barr. Yusuf Ibrahim, the House said both Naira Marley and Mohbad’s manager were needed to guide the committee on further legislative action.

The letter reads, “The House Committee on Justice, Youth and Legislative Compliance invites you and the legal team of MOHBAD for an interactive meeting session as regards a referral received being a resolution of the House of Representatives during their plenary session on Tuesday 26th September 2023 with respect to the circumstances surrounding the royalties and other benefits of Mohbad and to ascertain the level of your interaction with other relevant copyright organizations, such information will guide the committee on further legislative action,” the letter partly read.
“In view of the above, you are kindly invited for an interactive session with the chairman of the Committee on Justice, Youth and Legislative Compliance scheduled as follows: Tuesday 31st October 2023 at 2:30 pm.”