The Coroner’s Court has called for criminal charges against nurse Feyisayo Ogedengbe over Mohbad’s death.
The court ruled her injection was negligent, unlawful, and led to the singer’s sudden passing.
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The Coroner’s Court in Ikorodu, Lagos, has called for the criminal prosecution of nurse Feyisayo Ogedengbe over the death of Nigerian singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad.
Delivering the ruling on Friday, Magistrate Adedayo Shotobi described Ogedengbe’s actions as “grossly negligent,” saying she administered an injection without a doctor’s prescription, leading to the artist’s sudden demise. While ruling out foul play or homicide, the magistrate stated the injection was “unlawful and professionally negligent.”
The court’s ruling came after an inquest launched by the Lagos State Government on September 29, 2023, in response to intense public calls for justice. Nineteen witnesses, including medical personnel, police officers, and relatives, testified during the proceedings.
Magistrate Shotobi confirmed that Mohbad passed away just hours after receiving the injection at his Lekki home. She noted that there was no evidence of natural causes but highlighted that the death resulted from unauthorized medical practice.
“In pursuance of Section 29 of the Coroner Laws of Lagos State, this court recommends that the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution commence prosecution against Felicia Ogedengbe for unlawful medical practice and gross negligence,” she ruled.
Beyond the nurse’s role, the court also criticized Mohbad’s father, Joseph Aloba, for burying his son hastily and without proper documentation. The magistrate described the burial as “hasty and undignified,” citing the lack of a death certificate, autopsy, or police clearance.
“Though cultural beliefs may have influenced his actions, they obstructed forensic investigations and delayed justice,” Shotobi added. She also questioned the credibility of Mr. Aloba’s later public statements, stating they lacked evidence.
Mohbad’s partner, Omowunmi, was not spared from scrutiny. The court faulted her for failing to demand emergency services or insist on accountability at the point of Mohbad’s death and burial.
“Her assertiveness only emerged after public outrage,” the court observed. “As the last person with the deceased, more protective and responsible action was expected.”
The court also spotlighted the Nigeria Police Force for failing to act on a petition Mohbad filed before his death, especially concerning threats and harassment from individuals in the music industry. It recommended a formal probe into the police’s inaction and called on the Human Rights Commission to investigate possible abuse of power.
On the issue of bullying, the court acknowledged that Mohbad endured psychological trauma from individuals like music executive Naira Marley and show promoter Sam Larry. However, it concluded that there was no direct evidence linking their actions to his death.
Magistrate Shotobi concluded by indicting not just individuals, but institutions and the broader music community, saying: “Everyone around Mohbad failed him, from his family and friends to law enforcement and the industry. These failures created an unsafe environment for the young artist.”
Mohbad passed away on September 12, 2023, after reportedly sustaining an injury and receiving treatment at home. He was buried the next day. Amid growing public suspicion, his body was exhumed on September 21 for autopsy. The first results were inconclusive due to organ decomposition, prompting a second examination.
Reacting to the coroner’s verdict, Wahab Shittu, SAN, counsel to Mohbad’s family, commended the ruling, praising the magistrate’s fairness and depth.
“This is one coroner who has the brain, balance, and conscience,” he said.
Kabir Akingbolu, counsel to Omowunmi, also welcomed the recommendations but insisted his client should not be blamed for not stopping the burial, describing the situation as beyond her control.
With the court’s findings now public, pressure is mounting on authorities to act swiftly and ensure justice for Mohbad.
