The family of late Nigerian singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, has renewed calls for an independent and thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death. In a statement issued on Tuesday, the family also directed the singer’s partner, Wunmi Adebanjo, to stop using the Aloba surname until a court-ordered DNA test confirms the paternity of her son, Liam.
Led by family head Omolayo Aloba and Mohbad’s father, Joseph Aloba, the statement emphasized the family’s commitment to justice and transparency. It noted that new legal representatives had been appointed to handle all matters related to the singer’s estate and the ongoing DNA proceedings. “The Aloba family is unwavering in its demand for a transparent, independent, and comprehensive investigation. We are determined to uncover the truth, ensure justice, and hold accountable anyone responsible,” the statement said.
Oladayo Ogungbe, Esq., of Ogungbe & Ogungbe Attorneys, has been named the official legal counsel for the family on all estate and DNA-related matters, while Dr. Wahab Shittu, SAN, will continue representing the family in all communications with investigative authorities regarding Mohbad’s death.
The family also appointed three administrators—Ajewole Aloba, Rasaq Famuyiwa, and Alonge Aloba—to manage the singer’s estate, including royalties, bank holdings, property, and intellectual property. The statement clarified that Wunmi Adebanjo could join the administrators if a DNA test confirms Liam as Mohbad’s biological child.
Additionally, the family stressed that Wunmi should not use the Aloba surname in public or private records until legal verification of paternity is complete. They confirmed that no formal or customary marriage occurred between Mohbad and Wunmi, as the required Yoruba traditional marriage rites, including the payment of bride price, were never fulfilled. If the DNA test confirms the child as Mohbad’s, both mother and son will be formally recognized in the estate administration process.
The family appealed to the public to remain calm and respect the judicial process. They also stated that a new burial and memorial date for Mohbad will be announced once legal and family matters are resolved. “Justice for Mohbad remains our unwavering goal, and we will continue to pursue it lawfully and peacefully,” the statement concluded.
Reacting to the family’s directive, Wunmi’s lawyer, Kabir Akingbolu, criticized the move, calling it both illegal and sentimental. He accused the family of withdrawing from the DNA testing process multiple times and attempting to shift the test abroad against court orders. Akingbolu maintained that his client is ready for the DNA test at any time and defended her right to retain the surname, citing constitutional protections and Supreme Court precedent.
The dispute underscores ongoing tensions between Mohbad’s family and his widow over paternity and estate control. Mohbad, a former signee of Marlian Music, passed away at the age of 27 on September 12, 2023, triggering widespread controversy. Following his death, the Lagos State Police established a 13-man special investigation team, and the family later filed for a DNA test to resolve questions surrounding the paternity of his son, Liam.