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The Nigerian music industry was plunged into mourning on September 12, 2023, when news broke out that one of its brightest stars, MohBad, had passed away at the age of 27. The rapper, singer, and songwriter, whose real name was Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, died in a Lagos hospital under mysterious circumstances. The exact cause of his death has not been revealed to the public, and the Lagos state governor has promised a thorough investigation into the matter.
MohBad, also known as Imole (the Yoruba word for light), was a rising star in the Afrobeats scene, especially in the subgenre of street hop, which blends hip hop, dancehall, and indigenous elements. He was known for his catchy hooks, witty lyrics, and distinctive baritone voice. He had a loyal fan base that admired his relatable and sometimes controversial themes, such as poverty, hustle, love, and drugs.
MohBad started his music career in 2019, when he signed to Naira Marley's Marlian Records. He quickly gained popularity with his hit singles "Ponmo," "KPK (Ko Por Ke)," and "Feel Good," which featured Naira Marley, Lil Kesh, and Davido respectively. He also released his debut EP, Light, in 2020, which showcased his versatility and talent.
However, things took a sour turn in 2022, when MohBad left Marlian Records after a feud with Naira Marley. He alleged that his former boss was sabotaging his career and that he was being bullied within the industry. He also filed a petition with the police, accusing a music promoter of assaulting him and destroying his equipment. He then launched his own label, Imolenization, and released his second EP, Blessed, in June 2023. The EP featured Zlatan and Bella Shmurda and received positive reviews from critics and fans alike.
Unfortunately, MohBad did not live long enough to enjoy the fruits of his labor. His death sparked an outpouring of grief and anger from his fans, who took to the streets of various cities in Nigeria to demand justice for their idol. They also flooded social media platforms with tributes and condolences, using the hashtag #justiceformohbad. Some of his songs also surged in popularity after his demise, reaching the top spots on various streaming charts.
MohBad was a talented and charismatic artist who left an indelible mark on the Nigerian music scene. He will be remembered for his passion, creativity, and courage. He was a light that shone brightly in the dark and inspired many with his music. May his soul rest in peace.