The Federal High Court in Abuja has set September 29 as the date for judgment in a case demanding a renewed investigation into the death of late Nigerian singer Mohbad, whose passing in September 2023 sparked widespread public outcry and calls for justice. Justice James Omotosho announced the date after hearing arguments from Chief Tunde Falola, counsel for the Registered Trustees of Break the Silence Foundation, a human rights group pushing for transparency in the case. The foundation filed the suit seeking a court order compelling the Nigeria Police Force to reopen its investigation into Mohbad’s death, which remains shrouded in mystery and unanswered questions.
During the hearing on Thursday, June 25, the respondents — including the Inspector-General of Police, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Lagos State Commissioner of Police — were absent and not represented in court. With no legal representation from the police authorities, Chief Falola adopted all the foundation’s filed processes and urged the court to grant the reliefs sought. He argued that the initial investigation by the police failed to adequately address key aspects of Mohbad’s death, including unresolved leads and inconsistencies in the official narrative.
Falola emphasized that the circumstances surrounding the singer’s death continue to raise serious concerns and deserve public scrutiny. “The circumstances surrounding his death remain mysterious and deserve public attention. As a human rights organisation seeking justice, we believe the police should reopen the investigation,” he stated. The foundation’s goal, he added, is to ensure that law enforcement conducts a more thorough, transparent, and accountable review of the case.
The court also considered an application by Samson Obaboye, who sought to join the suit, claiming he had relevant information and supported calls for accountability. However, Justice Omotosho dismissed the request, ruling that Obaboye had not demonstrated sufficient legal interest to be included as a party. As a result, the case will proceed solely on the foundation’s original application.
Meanwhile, Mohbad’s widow, Wunmi Aloba, has taken legal action against TikToker Oladimeji Hammed, known as Immunizer, for allegedly defaming her in online videos. The social media personality had posted content suggesting Wunmi planned to leave the country during her ongoing dispute with her father-in-law over the paternity of her son, Liam. The defamation suit underscores the ongoing emotional and legal battles surrounding Mohbad’s legacy.
As the court prepares to deliver its judgment, the case remains a focal point in Nigeria’s public discourse on justice, transparency, and accountability in high-profile deaths. The outcome on September 29 could set a precedent for how authorities handle investigations into celebrity deaths and public interest cases.
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