An Abuja-based human rights lawyer, Pelumi Olajengbesi, has called on the police authorities and the Lagos State Government to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the controversial death of Nigerian singer, Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad. In a statement released on Friday, Olajengbesi emphasized that it is crucial for the current inquest to avoid the pitfalls of previous investigations where justice was not served.
As he highlighted, there have been unfortunate incidents in the past that provoked public outrage but failed to yield justice. Olajengbesi cited the case of 12-year-old Sylvester Oromoni Jnr, a student at Dowen College in Lekki, whose death under mysterious circumstances in 2021 remains unresolved. He also mentioned the case of 14-year-old Karen-Happuch Akpagher, a student of Premiere Academy in Abuja, who tragically passed away after being raped.
“Numerous similar incidents have occurred across Nigeria, but justice has been elusive in most cases, particularly in the instances involving Sylvester and Karen-Happuch,” explained Olajengbesi.
Turning his attention to Mohbad’s case, the lawyer urged the police and the Lagos State Government not to overlook key individuals who have been accused by the public. He emphasized the importance of conducting a thorough investigation and holding perpetrators accountable, regardless of their social status or connections. According to Olajengbesi, no one should be considered above the law in this matter.
He further stressed the need for society to address the issue of bullying and cultism, which have surfaced in these tragic incidents. Olajengbesi called for stricter penalties to discourage the recurrence of such antisocial behavior, emphasizing that justice must prevail.
“The investigation into Mohbad’s death must be meticulous. The culprits must face the consequences of their actions, regardless of their status or affiliations. No one should be exempt from accountability,” insisted Olajengbesi. He added, “The police must go beyond mere public showmanship and deliver justice. Social misconduct only thrives when justice is absent, and this poses a danger to our nation.”
