Mohbad’s D**th: Court Rejects Fresh Investigation Bid

The Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a lawsuit seeking to compel the Nigeria Police Force to reopen investigations into the death of Nigerian singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Justice James Omotosho dismissed the suit filed by the Registered Trustees of Break the Silence Foundation, ruling that the organisation lacked the legal standing to institute the action.

The foundation had sued the Inspector-General of Police, the Nigeria Police Force and the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, seeking an order directing the police to conduct a fresh investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s death.

The organisation had argued that the initial police investigation was inadequate and alleged that some members of the late singer’s family were not properly questioned during the earlier probe.

However, Justice Omotosho held that the foundation failed to place the previous police investigation report before the court. According to the judge, the report was necessary to determine whether the police had indeed failed to investigate the individuals referenced by the applicant.

The court consequently found that the foundation’s allegations were not sufficiently supported by evidence and declined to order a fresh investigation based on what it considered unsubstantiated claims.

Justice Omotosho also cautioned lawyers against discussing pending court cases through the media or social media platforms. He noted that such comments could influence public perception of proceedings and evidence before the court.

The judge further warned legal practitioners that the court could invoke its contempt powers against lawyers who disregard the directive and continue making public comments about cases that are still before the judiciary.

In the final ruling, Justice Omotosho held that the suit failed both on the issue of legal standing and the lack of sufficient evidence to support the claims made by the applicant. The case was therefore dismissed.

Mohbad died in Lagos on September 12, 2023, at the age of 27. The court’s decision leaves the existing police investigation without the fresh probe sought by the foundation.