Davido, Falz, Zlatan, others join candlelight procession for Mohbad in Lagos

Nigerian music stars Davido, Falz, and Zlatan Ibile were among the celebrities and fans who participated in a candlelight procession for the late Afrobeats singer Mohbad in Lagos on Thursday.

Mohbad, whose real name was Ilerioluwa Aloba, died on September 12 at the age of 27 under mysterious circumstances. His death sparked outrage and calls for justice from his supporters and fellow artists.

The candlelight procession started from the Lekki Phase One Gate axis of Lagos, where hundreds of people gathered at 5 p.m. wearing white T-shirts and holding placards and posters with Mohbad’s pictures.

The procession ended at Muri Okunola Park, where a tribute concert was held in honour of the late rapper. The concert featured performances and speeches from his colleagues and friends, who paid glowing tributes to his talent and legacy.

Davido, who flew into the country for the event, said he was proud of Mohbad and his achievements. He said, “Everybody is doing this, not only in Nigeria. In America, in London, and in Dubai, the whole world is listening to your music. I flew down for this, and we are going to keep your name alive for sure.”

Falz, who also performed at the concert, said Mohbad was a rare gem and a source of inspiration for many young artists. He said, “You were a star, a legend, a genius. You touched so many lives with your music and your message. You were a voice for the voiceless and a leader for the youth. You will never be forgotten.”

Zlatan, who collaborated with Mohbad on several songs, said he was heartbroken by his death and hoped that justice would be served. He said, “You were my brother, my friend, and my partner. We made history together, and we made magic together. You were always there for me, always supporting me. I don’t know how to cope without you. I pray that God will reveal the truth and punish those who did this to you.”

Other artists who attended the event included Bella Shmurda, Niniola, Lyta, Joeboy, and Fireboy DML. They all performed some of Mohbad’s songs and expressed their condolences to his family and fans.

The candlelight procession and tribute concert were part of the events organised by Mohbad’s management, Imolenization, to celebrate his life and music. Similar events were also held in other cities across Nigeria and abroad, such as Ibadan, Asaba, Peckham, and New York.

Mohbad was one of the most popular and influential Afrobeats artists in Nigeria. He rose to fame after signing with Naira Marley’s Marlian Records in 2019. He released several hit songs, such as “Ponmo”, “Feel Good”, and “KPK (Ko Por Ke)”, which earned him multiple nominations and awards. He left Marlian Records in 2022 and launched his own label, Imolenization. He released two EPs, Light and Blessed, before his death.

The cause of Mohbad’s death is still under investigation by the police and the Department of State Services (DSS). The police have confirmed that they have exhumed his body and conducted an autopsy. They have also arrested a nurse who allegedly injected him before he died. The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, have promised to ensure a thorough and transparent probe into the matter. The Senate has also intervened and sent a delegation to visit Mohbad’s family and assure them of the government’s commitment to getting justice.