Outrage Over Delay in Mohbad Death Investigation: Protesters Demand Answers at Nigerian High Commission in London
On June 25, 2024, a group of protesters stormed the Nigerian High Commission in London, demanding a thorough investigation into the death of popular Nigerian artist Mohbad. Mohbad, formerly signed to Naira Marley’s Marlian Music label, passed away on September 12, 2023, sparking widespread controversy and outcry.
The protesters, made up of Nigerians living in London, carried placards with slogans expressing their discontent over the delayed and inconclusive autopsy results. They urged the Nigerian authorities to leave no stone unturned in determining the true circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s untimely demise.
According to reports, the demonstrators not only demanded justice for Mohbad but also called for a thorough investigation into the individuals who were present with him at the time of his passing. The protesters expressed deep frustration over the lack of clarity and transparency in the ongoing probe.
The incident leading to Mohbad’s death had previously resulted in the arrest of several individuals, including Naira Marley and Balogun Eletu, also known as Sam Larry. In response, the Lagos State Police Command had established a 13-member special investigation team on September 18, 2023, to look into the matter.
As part of the investigation, Mohbad’s body was exhumed on September 21, 2023, for an autopsy to determine the cause of death. However, the process has been plagued by delays and inconsistencies.
In September 2023, the Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, had announced that the autopsy had been completed and the police were awaiting the results. However, in April 2024, it was reported that the toxicology test to determine the cause of Mohbad’s death had been completed, and the result was sent to the pathologist for analysis and interpretation.
Surprisingly, the US-based laboratory, NMS Labs in Pennsylvania, refuted the claim by the Lagos State Government that the test was conducted at their facility, further adding to the confusion surrounding the investigation.
To make matters worse, a pathologist testified in the Coroner’s Court on May 15, 2024, that the autopsy was unable to determine Mohbad’s cause of death due to the decomposition of his body. This revelation has only amplified the frustration and suspicion among Mohbad’s supporters and the general public.
The protesters in London have now taken their demands for justice and transparency directly to the Nigerian High Commission, hoping to put pressure on the authorities to expedite the investigation and provide the public with definitive answers about Mohbad’s untimely demise.
