Nigerian police have detained Afrobeats star Naira Marley for questioning over the death of a fellow singer, whose mysterious demise has sparked public outrage and calls for justice.
MohBad, 27, died at a hospital in the city of Lagos last month, but the cause of his death is unclear. Police have said they are investigating, but have not provided any further details.
Marley, who had a public falling out with MohBad last year, has denied any involvement in his death. He said he had returned from abroad to assist with the investigation.
“It’s important I do my part for Imole,” Marley said, referring to another name by which MohBad was known. “I’ll be meeting with the police with hopes for the truth to be uncovered and for justice to prevail,” he added on social media.
Marley is a highly popular Afrobeats star in Nigeria, but he is also a controversial figure who has had previous brushes with the law. In 2020, he reached an out-of-court settlement with a man who accused him and his associates of assaulting him and stealing his car. Marley denied the charges.
MohBad’s death has sparked a wave of public anger and protests in Nigeria, with many demanding justice for the late singer. The hashtag #justiceformohbad has been trending on social media.
A concert to pay tribute to MohBad was held in Lagos two weeks ago, after which fans marched towards Lekki toll gate to continue their vigil. Many of the mourners wore white T-shirts and held candles or their mobile phone torches aloft as they danced to the songs of the late artist.
The Lagos state governor has opened an inquiry involving the country’s secret police into MohBad’s death.
The detention of Naira Marley is seen by many as a sign that the police are taking the case seriously. It remains to be seen whether he will be charged with any crime.
