Controversial Nigerian singer Azeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, has been summoned by the House of Representatives as part of efforts to secure compensation and royalties for the late singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, known as Mohbad, for his musical works. The move comes after Mohbad’s tragic death at the age of 27 under unclear circumstances on September 12, 2023.
The House’s Committee on Justice, Youth, and Legislative Compliance has also extended an invitation to Jiggy Adeoye, the manager of the late singer, for an interactive session scheduled for Tuesday, October 31, 2023.
The decision to wade into this matter was reached after the adoption of a motion put forward by Babajimi Benson, a member of the House representing the APC from Lagos. Benson called for a comprehensive review of the laws that govern the entertainment industry and copyright laws. He expressed concerns about the contracts and agreements that artists are often compelled to sign, raising questions about their fairness and transparency.
During the debate on this matter at the plenary session, lawmakers assured Mohbad’s family of their commitment to securing proper compensation and royalties from his musical works. The House also resolved to monitor the investigation surrounding his death and the royalties owed to him.
In a letter dated October 26, 2023, and signed by the Committee’s Clerk, Barr. Yusuf Ibrahim, the House informed Naira Marley and Mohbad’s manager about the need for their guidance in further legislative action. The letter was sent through the President of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN).
The letter stated, “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.”
Naira Marley and Mohbad’s manager have been asked to attend the interactive session with the chairman of the Committee on Justice, Youth, and Legislative Compliance on Tuesday, October 31, 2023, at 2:30 pm.
