The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted permission to a civil society organisation to pursue legal action seeking a fresh investigation into the death of Nigerian singer Mohbad (Ilerioluwa Aloba)
Justice James Omotosho approved the request after hearing an ex-parte motion filed by the Break the Silence Foundation, a non-governmental organisation advocating justice in the case.
The ruling allows the group to apply for an order of mandamus that could compel the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) and other authorities to conduct a comprehensive reinvestigation.
Mohbad, a fast-rising music star, died in September 2023 in Lagos, sparking widespread protests across Nigeria and internationally, with many demanding accountability and transparency.
As part of the ruling, the court directed that investigators should invite individuals who were last seen with the deceased, including his wife, Omowumi Cynthia Aloba ,close associates, and his father, Joseph Aloba
The judge also stated that law enforcement agencies should take further action, including arrests and prosecution, if evidence links any individual to the circumstances surrounding the singer’s death.
In addition, the court approved an alternative method of serving legal documents on the Lagos State Police Command allowing delivery through the IGP’s legal department at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
The case has been adjourned to May 4, 2026, for further hearing.
The Break the Silence Foundation argued that earlier police investigations into Mohbad’s death were incomplete and failed to adequately question key individuals.
According to court filings, the organisation believes that certain persons who had close contact with the singer before his death were not thoroughly investigated.
The group also claimed it had previously petitioned authorities, including the Presidency, leading to a directive for the case to be reassigned to the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) for a more thorough review.
However, the NGO maintained that the subsequent handling of the case did not meet expectations for a transparent and credible investigation.
Mohbad’s passing triggered intense public reaction, with protests spreading across continents, reflecting widespread suspicion that his death may not have been natural.
Although a nurse who treated him shortly before his death was earlier prosecuted, many stakeholders—including human rights groups—have continued to call for a deeper probe.
The NGO insisted that pursuing the court action was necessary to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law.
