- By Halimah Olamide
The House of Representatives on Tuesday moved to protect the copyright of the late singer, Oladimeji Ilerioluwa Aloba popularly called Mohbad.
Mohbad died on September 12, 2023 in circumstances that have led to police investigations.
Raising a motion on the floor on Tuesday, member representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency, Babajinmi Benson, said Mohbad’s sudden death has created some tension with his fans believing his death is untimely and should be investigated.
The member said it was evident that Mohbad’s fans were struggling to come to terms with his untimely demise, adding that Mohbad also known as Imole, “light” in Yoruba, was an artist who sang of peace and light.
He told the House that Mohbad left his record label, Marlian Records, owned by Azeez Fashola (Naira Marley) in 2022, citing various grievances, including unpaid royalties.
“Mohbad left his record label, Marlian Records, owned by Azeez Fashola (Naira Marley), in 2022, citing various grievances, including unpaid royalties. This issue is indicative of a broader problem in which artists encounter challenges asserting their rights.
“Most of the proceeds of the late artist are still going to the Marlian Music Group, and there have been no moves from any agency to protect the Estate of the late singer who is currently the 46th best-selling digital artiste in the world,” he said.
“A disturbing industry practice has come to the fore. Evidence of mistreatment highlights the struggles of young artists who, in their quest for success, become entangled in parasitic contracts and face bullying when they seek to exit these agreements,” he said.
The House therefore resolved that the Nigeria Copyright Commission (NCC) must put measures in place immediately to protect his creative works.