Mohbad’s Royalties Dispute: Naira Marley Summoned by Reps for Answers

The House of Representatives has summoned controversial singer Azeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, to appear before it as part of moves to secure compensation and royalties for late singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, known as Mohbad, for his musical works.

Through its Committee on Justice, Youth, and Legislative Compliance, the House has also invited the manager of the late singer, Jiggy Adeoye, to participate in an interactive session scheduled for Tuesday, October 31.

Mohbad, an ex-signee of Naira Marley’s record label, tragically passed away at the age of 27 under unclear circumstances on 12 September.

The House made this resolution following a motion put forth by Babajimi Benson (APC, Lagos), who called for a review of the pertinent laws governing the entertainment industry and copyright regulations, expressing concerns about the contracts and agreements that entertainers are compelled to sign.

During the debate at the plenary session, lawmakers reassured Mohbad’s family of their unwavering commitment to securing proper compensation and royalties from his musical works.

Additionally, the House resolved to closely monitor the investigation surrounding Mohbad’s death and the royalties due to him.

In a letter dated October 26, 2023, and signed by the Committee’s Clerk, Barr. Yusuf Ibrahim, the House has formally requested the presence of both Naira Marley and Mohbad’s manager to provide guidance for further legislative actions.

This letter was routed through the President of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN).

“The House Committee on Justice, Youth, and Legislative Compliance extends an invitation to you and the legal team of MOHBAD for an interactive meeting session regarding a referral received. This referral stems from a resolution passed by the House of Representatives during their plenary session on Tuesday, 26th September 2023, in relation to the circumstances surrounding the royalties and other benefits of Mohbad and to assess your level of interaction with other relevant copyright organizations. The information obtained will be instrumental in guiding the committee’s further legislative actions,” the letter partly read.

“In light of the above, we kindly request your presence at an interactive session with the chairman of the Committee on Justice, Youth, and Legislative Compliance, scheduled as follows: Tuesday, 31st October 2023, at 2:30 pm.”