House of Representatives Takes Action in Response to Mohbad’s Tragic Passing

The Nigeria Copyright Commission (NCC) has been asked by the House of Representatives to come up with strategies for defending the rights to the music and lyrics of the late Ilerioluwa Aloba, AKA Mohbad.

The action was taken after a proposal by Rep. Babajimi Benson (APC-Lagos) was approved during the plenary’s resumed session in Abuja on Tuesday, September 26.

Benson moved the motion, stating that Mohbad sadly passed away on Tuesday, September 12, inexplicably, and that his name had continued to dominate news and discussions across the country and beyond.

He said that there had been demonstrations and a march of young people to a tribute performance, where many musicians were there, singing his name and demanding an investigation.

The rep 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 further said 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.

Consequently, the House resolved that the Nigeria Copyright Commission (NCC) must put measures in place immediately to prot.