Naira Marley says he is making arrangements to return to Nigeria to assist in the ongoing investigation into the death of Mohbad.
Mohbad, the former Marlian Records signee, died on September 12 and was buried the next day.
Marley, the Marlian Records head honcho, is one of the persons of interest in the death of Mohbad.
In a lengthy statement shared on his Instagram handle on Tuesday evening, Marley said he has been “out of the country since August 31, 2023”.
He said he would honour the police invitation and fully cooperate with the investigation by “giving my version of the events”.
Marley also insisted that “I have no hand in Mohbad’s death” and “certainly have no reason to be a fugitive”.
Read the full statement below:
“In the last few days, there has been a lot of onslaught on my person and reputation globally over the death of my former signee.
“All manner of stories have been woven against me in respect of his untimely death. I have not only been in shock over the death of the deceased, whom I considered to be my brother and member of our music family, but also over the various lies spread and threats against me.
“Before I progress further, let me say that, as it is traumatic for a lot of people to bear the reality of Ileri’s death, so it is for me.
“May his gentle soul continue to rest in peace, and may God grant his family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
Permit me to categorically state that I have no hand in the death of Ilerioluwa, either directly or indirectly.
“It is not unusual in the industry, just like in several other industries, to have family friction, even among blood relatives. Truly, we had our own share of misunderstandings while working together, but the disagreement between us was never to the extent being painted by some hirelings.
“It never degenerated to the extent of wishing each other death. Even at that, we were resolving our business disputes legally before he had passed.
“I have chosen not to say anything since I am distraught over his death and in order not to jeopardise the investigation being carried out by the government agencies.
“In addition, I have been out of the country since the 31st of August, 2023, and I’m yet to return.
“In light of the police invitation, I am making arrangements to return to the country to assist the investigation and give my version of the events.
“I am fully cooperating with the police team, and I certainly have no reason to be a fugitive when I have no hand in his death.
“I am certain that the culprit behind his death has a vendetta against me and is fueling public opinions to have me lynched for reasons known to them.
“In due time, the circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s death will be unveiled, and the world will know the truth. This kind of scenario of attempting to set someone up is not novel in the industry, as other great musicians have experienced the same and came out better and stronger. Mine will not be an exception, as I am innocent of the accusations.
“Mohbad left the label in September 2022; the label accepted his departure. Marlian Music has not stopped or interfered with his career or releases since, and he has been with OneRPM.
“Legal efforts were made to reconcile his concerns regarding the work we had done together.
“The rumours regarding the label being a drug cartel are untrue. I am not a drug lord, nor do I belong to any cult or fraternity. I’m dedicated to proving my innocence, and I’m cooperating with the authorities to clear my name with sufficient evidence.
“Marlian Music is an independent label run by a small, intimate team. We run a legitimate label that focuses on championing exceptional talent, breaking new acts, and nurturing them.
“I will like to clearly state that I have never fought or attacked Mohbad. For the avoidance of doubt, I have never instructed anyone—friends, known associates, or fans—to attack, bully, or harass Mohbad.
“With regards to the talent on the label, none of our artists ever fought or mistreated Mohbad. I share my deepest condolences with the family.
“Let’s be mindful as we seek justice and focus on supporting the police and authorities with relevant information and evidence surrounding his death so that those responsible will be apprehended. I am positive that, at the end of the day, the truth will prevail and I will be exonerated.
“My lawyers are already in touch with the police and government agencies and will support them in every way necessary.
“Without a doubt, I will honour his memory, and I promise to do right by him and his family.”
The Marlian Record label boss earlier said that although they had “disagreements, no harm whatsoever was wished on Mohbad”.
Thousands of Nigerians have demanded justice for Mohbad in nationwide protests.
The Lagos police inaugurated a 13-man special investigation team to probe Mohbad’s death on September 18.
On September 21, the police exhumed Mohbad’s corpse for an autopsy and are awaiting the results.
