Mr Joseph Aloba, the father of the late singer, Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, has filed an application before the Ikeja state High Court seeking to quash the legal advice, decision and recommendation made by the Director of Public Prosecutions in respect of the alleged murder case of Mohbad.

Aloba is suing for himself and on behalf of the Aloba family.

The respondents in the suit are the Lagos State Attorney General Lawal Pedro (SAN) and the Director of Public Prosecutions, Dr Babajide Martins.

In the suit marked ID/6197MJR/2025, dated March 12, 2025,  and filed on March 13, 2025, Aloba through his lawyer, Dr. Wahab Shittu (SAN), is praying the court for an order granting him leave to quash the legal advice, decision and recommendation made by the Lagos State DPP in respect of the murder case of late singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, alias Mohbad.

The motion ex-parte application was based on three grounds for which the applicant (Aloba) said it lacked fair hearing under Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria.

The other grounds are pre-emption of the Coroner’s inquest proceedings by the DPP’s legal advice which has yet to conclude sitting, and vital suspects mentioned and implicated in the Coroner’s proceeding have been allegedly freed by the DPP’s legal advice.

In an 18-paragraph affidavit in support of the motion ex-parte, deposed to by Aloba, he stated that the death of his son, Mohbad, on September 11, 2023, was viewed as unnatural and suspicious which led to him petitioning and demanding an inquest into the cause of the death.

He said that pursuant to his request to determine the circumstances that led to the death of his son, the inquest was referred to the Coroner’s court with suit No: COR/IKD/10/2023 before Coroner Magistrate T.A.Shotobi, who commenced sitting on September 29, 2023, and the proceedings had yet to be concluded.

According to him, while the coroner proceedings have yet to be concluded, by the Cororner’s court, on February 26, 2025, Magistrate Ejiro Kubenhe at the Yaba Magistrate Court acting on the legal advice of the Respondents (AG and DPP), discharged and acquitted the four prime suspects, Abdulazeez Fashola alias Naira Marley, Samason Balogun Eletu A.K.A Sam Larry and Owoduni Ibrahim, a.k.a. Prime Boy, and Pere Babatunde in the controversial death of Mohbad, who were released on an “undated legal advice marked as exhibit A.”

He further stated that what was shown to him and marked exhibit ‘B’ was the Certified True Copy of the proceedings of the Yaba Magistrate Court, which discharged the prime suspects based on the legal advice of the respondents.

“The discharged and acquitted suspects by the respondents pursuant to their legal advice have been mentioned and implicated in the Coroner’s proceedings and have been summoned and are yet to appear and give evidence as to their role in the death of Mohabd.

“The police through one ASP Mohammed Yusuf attached to the homicide section of the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti and the respondents through their senior counsel, Mr George, participated in the Coroner’s proceedings.

“The State CID Panti forwarded the case containing their investigation to the respondents without informing the Coroner’s court and while both offices, particularly the respondents who are aware of the Coroner’s inquest proceeded to issue legal advice which prompted the Magistrate Court to discharge and acquitted the prime suspects.

“That I know as a fact that the act or omission of the respondents is without due regard to the Coroner’s court which constitutes an obstruction of the coroner in the exercise of its statutory duties.

“That I know as a fact that the respondents’ failure to allow the Coroner to conclude its proceeding and proceeded to issue the legal advice is pre-empting the outcome of the decision of the Coroner and is done without jurisdiction and is null and void.

“That I know as a fact that the act or omission of the respondents issuing legal advice in respect of the matter upon which inquest is being conducted amounted to obstructing and interfering with the Coroner’s investigation and potentially influencing the outcome.

“ That I know as a fact that the act or omission of the respondents issuing legal advice which constituted an affront to the executive jurisdiction of the Coroner the power to conduct inquests into suspicious and unnatural death is expected to run its course without external interference.

“That I know as a fact that the act or omission of the respondents, apart from being pre-emptive of the Coroner’s proceedings, undermines the integrity of the inquest and potentially compromises the outcome of the coroner’s investigation.

“That I know as a fact that the act or omission of the Respondents while aware that the Coroner‘s inquest is still pending is to overreach the outcome of the Coroner’s inquest and is improper,” Aloba said.

He prayed the court for its intervention to get justice for the death of his son.

“The applicant needs the intervention of this court to get justice for the death of his son otherwise allowing the legal advice from the respondents to stay may automatically put an end to the seriousness of the Coroner’s  Court and its proceedings.

“That the grant of this application will not be prejudicial to the Respondents. That I make this affidavit in good faith, believing the contents to be true and in accordance with the oath laws of Lagos State,” he added.

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has directed MultiChoice Nigeria, the operator of DStv and GOtv, to maintain its current subscription prices pending the conclusion of an ongoing investigation into the company’s proposed tariff adjustment.

The consumer watchdog disclosed this in a statement signed by its Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, on Thursday.

The directive follows MultiChoice’s request for an extension regarding its scheduled appearance before the commission over concerns surrounding its recurring price increases.

The regulator had earlier summoned MultiChoice’s Chief Executive Officer to appear before it on February 27 for an investigative hearing.

While the FCCPC granted the company’s request to postpone the session, it has now rescheduled the hearing for March 6, 2025, mandating the company’s CEO, relevant officers, and a comprehensive response to the inquiry.

“As part of this directive, MultiChoice is expressly instructed to maintain the existing price structure as of February 27, 2025, pending the commission’s review and final determination on the matter,” the statement read.

The FCCPC emphasised that the decision to freeze prices is aimed at preventing potential consumer exploitation during the investigation period.

MultiChoice had notified its customers on Monday of the impending price adjustment, citing a review of its pricing structure.

While the company stated that the changes were necessary to continue delivering world-class content, the development sparked concerns from subscribers.

Under the proposed adjustment, the DStv Compact package would be increased, while the Compact Plus and Premium bouquets would remain at N30,000 and N44,500, respectively.

In its notice titled “Price Adjustments for DStv and GOtv Packages,” the company said, “Dear Customer, please note that effective March 1, 2025, there will be a price adjustment on all DStv packages.

This is to enable us to continue offering our customers world-class homegrown and international content, delivered through the best technology.”

The FCCPC said it would provide further updates as the investigation progresses.

The Organised Private Sector on Monday demanded a fresh review of the Tax Bills, particularly, the proposed increase in the Value Added Tax which it said would discourage investment in the economy.

The Association of Capital Market Academies of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture were concerned by the planned hike in VAT from the current 7.5 per cent to 10 per cent in 2025, 12.5 per cent in 2026 and 15 per cent by 2030, as well as the proposed removal of the sections of the tax bills related to free zones.

The OPS spoke on Monday during the commencement of the two-day public hearing on the tax reforms organised by the Senate Committee on Finance, at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja.

The proposed tax reforms included the Joint Revenue Board Bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill and the Nigeria Tax Bill.

Although the four bills were eventually passed for a second reading in November by the Senate, they were met with hostility at the House of Representatives, where the northern lawmakers took sides with their governors that the bills be withdrawn for further consultation.

The Northern Governors’ Forum kickstarted the opposition against the bills, followed by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and the National Economic Council.

They advised President Bola Tinubu to withdraw the bills for wider consultations.

Prominent northern political leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, governors of Bauchi and Borno states, Bala Mohammed and Babagana Zulum, respectively, as well as former Sokoto State governor, Aminu Tambuwal, also kicked against the bills, arguing that they were designed to favour a section of the country to the detriment of the northern region.

The senator representing Borno South Senatorial District of Borno State, Ali Ndume and his counterpart from Bauchi Central Senatorial District of Bauchi State, Abdul Ningi, led the opposition against the bills at the Senate.

The 48 North-East lawmakers from Bauchi, Gombe, Adamawa, Taraba, Borno and Yobe states in the Green Chamber and various northern associations and youth groups also vowed not to support the bills until they were withdrawn for further consultation.

Despite the opposition, the President insisted that the bills should be allowed to pass through the legislative process, adding that aggrieved persons or entities should vent their views at the public hearings.

However, a compromise was reached in January at a meeting between the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and the Taiwo Oyedele-led committee over the VAT sharing formula.

At the meeting, the 36 governors proposed that the VAT revenue should be shared 50 per cent based on equality, 30 per cent on derivation and 20 per cent based on population, to guarantee a fair distribution of resources.

The development appeared to have assuaged the northern governors and lawmakers, as the House promptly debated and passed the bills for a second reading.

Speaking at the public hearing on Monday, ACMAN’s President, Prof Uche Uwaleke, expressed support for the proposed tax reforms but noted that the association feared that the bills would bring about VAT increment and possible negative impact on the economy.

He said, “The proposal to increase the Value Added Tax from the current 7.5 per cent to 10 per cent in 2025, 12.5 per cent in 2026 and 15 per cent by 2030 will increase transaction costs in the Nigerian capital market and discourage investments.

“In this regard, ACMAN does not support any increase in the VAT rate at this time, which tends to compound the current inflationary pressure.”

Calling on Nigerians to give the bills a chance to revamp the nation’s economy, the ACMAN boss noted, “Studies have shown that tax policies have a strong influence on the development of the capital market and by extension the economy of any country.

“It is against this backdrop that ACMAN welcomes the raft of fiscal incentives contained in the tax reform bills.

“It is pertinent to note that Chapter 8 of the Nigeria Tax Bills 2024 contains tax incentives capable of boosting the capital market in Nigeria.

“For example, Section 164 grants income tax exemption in respect of dividends distributed by authorised collective investment schemes, among others. This has the full support of ACMAN.

“ACMAN is also in full support of Section 56 of the Nigeria Tax Bills 2024 which has proposed a gradual reduction in the income tax on total profits of large companies in Nigeria from the current 30 per cent to 27.5 per cent in 2025 and to 25 per cent from 2026.

“This reduction will go a long way in improving the business climate in Nigeria as the country’s CIT is one of the highest in Sub-Saharan Africa.

“It bears repeating that the reduced income tax rates and other generous incentives to small businesses through increased exemption thresholds will most likely spur business activities, and create more job opportunities essential for the growth of the Nigerian economy.”

NACCIMA defends FTZ

NACCIMA emphasised the need to remove sections of the tax bills related to free trade zones.

Represented by its National President, Dele Oye, the association said, “All sections that affect free zones should be stepped down. There is an assumption that those in free zones don’t pay taxes. This is not true. They are only exempted from income tax.”

ANAN backs TETFund

The Association of National Accountants of Nigeria called for a review of the abrogation of the education tax that funds the Tertiary Education Trust Fund.

A representative of the body, Prof Abuchi Ogbuju, observed that the 2024 Nigeria Tax Bill proposed to end the education tax that funds TETFUND by 2030.

He said, “TETFUND has helped a lot in terms of the physical development that we see in our higher institutions today. If you remove them, there may be no laboratories and research centres.

“We will end up having more crises on our hands. How do you then take care of the critical role of TETFUND?”

RMAFC okays bills

On its part, the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission endorsed the bills.

Speaking at the public hearing, RMAFC Chairman, Muhammed Shehu, stated, “We are 100 per cent in support of the tax reforms. If implemented, they will ensure the stability of the economy while freeing up funds for infrastructural development.”

He, however, expressed concern about VAT distribution as proposed in the bills.

“We are concerned about VAT distribution to sub-nationals. We urge the committee to adopt the governors’ position on this,” he added.

Akpabio urges synergy

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, called for a synergy among the three tiers of government and the private sector to drive a new tax administration regime.

This, he said, would culminate in a revived economy which guarantees job creation for the teeming Nigerian populace.

Speaking at the commencement of the public hearing, Akpabio commended the President for coming up with the executive bills, even as he described the current tax laws as archaic and incapable of availing the country the needed revenues to execute development projects.

He said, “We must come together—federal, state, and local governments, alongside the private sector and civil society—to create a tax system that truly works for all.

“Today, we gather at a pivotal moment, one that calls us to reform, modernise, and optimise our tax system.

“This is not just a task; it is a profound responsibility we must embrace with courage, wisdom, and a steadfast commitment to the Nigerian people.

“As we look to the future, we must remember that a nation that fails to adapt its revenue system to the realities of our time risks stagnation and decline.”

He further stated, “An old African proverb teaches us: ‘A bird that does not leave its nest will never know the richness of the forest.’ Today, we are choosing to leave behind outdated tax practices and bureaucratic hurdles, spreading our wings toward a tax administration that is robust, transparent, and conducive to business.”

ACF submits report

The Arewa Consultative Forum submitted a comprehensive report to the National Assembly, outlining its views and recommendations on the tax reform bills.

The report, which was compiled by a special purpose committee of experts, aims to guide the proposed overhaul of Nigeria’s tax laws.

In a statement on Monday by the ACF’s National Publicity Secretary, Prof Tukur Muhammad-Baba, the forum said the report of its special committee of experts had been forwarded to the National Assembly.

“The proposed tax reforms have far-reaching implications for all sections of the country and not just the North.

“Therefore, we have taken a meticulous approach to studying the bills and providing recommendations that will benefit the nation as a whole.

“We recognise that the government needs to increase revenue, but we also believe that the current VAT rate is already a significant burden on citizens and businesses.

“Increasing the rate further could have unintended consequences, such as reducing consumer spending and harming economic growth,” the ACF’s spokesman said.

He added that the report also suggested improving the efficiency of VAT collection, formalising the informal sector, and utilising digital technologies to expand Nigeria’s tax base.

According to the ACF, these measures could significantly increase revenue without placing an undue burden on citizens and businesses.

He said the ACF recommended defining the term “derivation” and basing its distribution on a consensus reached through consultations with states and local governments.

“The concept of derivation is critical to ensuring that states and local governments receive their fair share of revenue.

“However, the current definition is ambiguous and we believe that it needs to be clarified to avoid disputes and ensure transparency,” the socio-cultural group insisted.

Continuing, Muhammad-Baba said the report also suggested reducing the powers attributed to the chief executive officer and chairman of the Board of Directors/Governance of the Joint Revenue Board.

According to the group, the proposed provisions amounted to attributing and concentrating almost absolute powers of supervision and accountability to a single person.

“We believe that this is not in the best interest of the nation, and we recommend that the powers of the Joint Revenue Board be reduced to prevent abuse and ensure accountability,” Muhammad-Baba counselled.

The ACF report also recommended re-phrasing Section 69 of the Nigeria Tax Bill to retain TETFUND and the National Information Technology Development Agency.

According to the report, these organisations played critical roles in promoting education and technological development in Nigeria and retaining them would be essential to ensuring the nation’s continued progress.

The ACF also suggested allowing records of accounts and preparation of tax returns in local languages, in addition to English language.

According to the ACF, this would make it easier for citizens to comply with tax laws and reduce the burden on taxpayers.

The scribe noted that the body encouraged all concerned stakeholders to engage with the National Assembly and contribute to the emergence of robust laws that would stand the test of time.

He said, “We believe that our report provides valuable insights and recommendations that will benefit the nation. We encourage all stakeholders to study the report carefully and provide feedback to the National Assembly.

“Together, we can create a tax system that is fair, efficient, and promotes economic growth and development.”

The forum, at the public hearing, distributed its report to various stakeholders, including the Forum of Northern State Governors, traditional rulers, and relevant government agencies.

Embattled Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Board of Trustees, BoT, Adolphus Wabara, has revealed plans to woo Governor Alex Otti of Abia State to join the party.

Wabara said Otti’s developmental strides was evidence-based, and devoid of party politics, adding that PDP would love the governor to return back to its fold.

He disclosed this during yesterday at the International Conference Centre, ICC Umuahia, the Abia State Capital.

Wabara said Otti and his counterpart from Enugu State, Peter Mbah have been very outstanding in the entire South East.

He said: “Politics ends after campaigns and elections, then governance begins. Even a blind man can see what is happening in Abia.

“Governor, continue to do well. Our ancestors in Abia are with you, and I want to believe that you are on constant touch with them for guidance. Every Abian is happy with you.

“I came from Enugu two days ago and I saw the massive development by Governor Peter Mbah of the PDP. Even APC people are confessing that you and your colleague, Peter Mbah are pace setters.

“I have never mentioned your party – the Labour Party. I have always said Gov Alex Otti is doing well. Nobody knows where he will swing in 2027. So, when these characters ( Wabara’s critics) are doing this and that, let them know I’m talking about Alex Otti. We are all wooing him. Governor, we are all wooing you”.

This is coming at a time the former Senate President was engrossed in a crisis with PDP.

According to report the PDP Abia State Working Committee, SWC, had suspended Wabara BoT Chairman.

But, the party’s National Working Committee, NWC, had nullified Wabara’s suspension.

PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, said the purported suspension violated the party’s Constitution (as amended in 2017) and does not follow due process.

Prince Lukman Gbadegesin, one of the contenders for the Alaafin of Oyo stool, has filed a lawsuit at the Oyo State High Court challenging the appointment of Prince Akeem Owoade as the new Alaafin.

The suit, filed on February 12, demands the reversal of Owoade’s appointment, arguing that it violates the Chiefs Law of Oyo State, 2000, and the Registered Alaafin Chieftaincy Declaration of 1961.

Gbadegesin is also seeking an injunction to prevent Owoade from assuming the throne or performing any royal duties.

Gbadegesin’s suit lists Governor Seyi Makinde, the Attorney General of Oyo State, and 11 others as defendants, asking the court to compel them to appear within 30 days.

In the suit filed through his lawyer, Kunle Sobaloju (SAN), the aggrieved prince contended that: “The governor’s approval of Owoade’s appointment within five days of its presentation was unlawful, unconstitutional, invalid, null, and void.”

Gbadegesin argued that the Oyomesi (kingmakers) had already selected him as the rightful candidate, and he is demanding a court declaration affirming his nomination as valid.

He alleged that Governor Makinde’s decision violated due process in several key areas.

“The selection of the fourth defendant as the Alaafin of Oyo was carried out to the exclusion of rightful kingmakers who were neither suspended nor removed,” he argued.

He is, therefore, seeking “A declaration that the claimant having been validly nominated by Agunloye Ruling House and or selected/appointed and or proclaimed by the kingmakers of the Alaafin of Oyo (known as Oyomesi) as the candidate to fill the vacant stool of the Alaafin of Oyo in accordance with the Chief’s Law of Oyo State, 2000 and the Registered Alaafin Chieftaincy Declaration of 1961, his appointment is valid, lawful and proper.”

Gbadegesin is also seeking an order directing the Governor of Oyo State to “immediately and forthwith approve the appointment of the claimant as validly nominated by Agunloye Ruling House and or selected/appointed and proclaimed by the kingmakers of Alaafin of Oyo as the candidate to fill the vacant stool of the Alaafin of Oyo.”

 Furthermore, the claimant asks for “an order of injunction restraining the first, third, fifth, sixth and ninth to thirteenth defendants, their agents, servants and or privies from recognising or further recognising the fourth defendants as Alaafin of Oyo and or paying him the stipends, allowances, salaries and all the prerequisites of office attached to the position of Alaafin of Oyo.”

Gbadegesin, in the suit, demands an order setting aside the nomination, selection and or appointment, approval or appointment and presentation of staff of office to Owoade as Alaafin of Oyo, insisting that it was done in violation of the provisions of the Chief’s Law of Oyo State, 2000, the Registered Alaafin Chieftaincy Declaration of 1961, unlawful, unconstitutional, invalid, null and void.

The suit comes after pre-action notice filed by Sobaloju, addressed to the Governor of Oyo State, insisting that the governor’s actions run foul of the Oyo State Chief’s Law, 2000.

Gbadegesin, recommended by a faction of the Oyomesi, is appealing that the court set aside the appointment, approval of appointment and presentation of staff of office to a new Alaafin carried out by the governor.

Meanwhile, the Oyo State Government has sent things in motion for the coronation of Owoade as the new Alaafin.

The state government and Owoade have constituted a coronation committee, which held its inaugural meeting last week.

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on President Bola Tinubu to order an investigation into allegations that over N26 billion is missing from the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) and the Ministry of Petroleum Resources in 2021.

SERAP is specifically asking the President to direct the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), along with appropriate anti-corruption agencies, to urgently investigate allegations that over N26 billion of public funds have been missing, diverted, or stolen from the PTDF and the petroleum ministry.

The organisation also urged President Tinubu to ensure that anyone responsible should face prosecution if sufficient admissible evidence exists, and all missing public funds should be fully recovered and returned to the treasury.

It further urged the president to use any recovered stolen funds to address the deficit in the 2025 budget and alleviate Nigeria’s crippling debt crisis.

SERAP made the demands in an open letter dated February 1, 2025, signed by its deputy director, Kolawole Oluwadare. The letter stated that ensuring justice and accountability regarding these serious allegations is important.

It noted that tackling corruption in the oil sector would significantly contribute to addressing the budget deficit and debt challenges.

The civil society organisation maintained that the allegations indicate a serious violation of public trust, the Nigerian Constitution 1999 (as amended), the country’s anti-corruption laws, and international anti-corruption obligations.

SERAP also stated that poor Nigerians have continued to suffer due to widespread corruption in the oil sector.

It pointed out that despite the country’s vast oil wealth, ordinary Nigerians have received minimal benefit from oil revenues, largely due to pervasive grand corruption and an entrenched culture of impunity among perpetrators.

 

SERAP stated, “The 2021 annual audited report by the auditor-general of the federation revealed that the PTDF reportedly paid over N25 billion (specifically N25,607,890,403.11) for contracts that lacked supporting documentation.

 

“The auditor-general expressed concerns that the funds may have been diverted and requested their recovery and return to the treasury.

 

“Furthermore, the PTDF failed to account for over N326 million (N326,065,638.00) deposited in two banks, raising fears that the money may be missing and should be recovered and returned to the treasury.

 

“The report indicates that the PTDF did not account for over N107 million (N107,691,733.93) designated for supplying, installing, and commissioning a library automation system and RFID at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI).

 

“The contract for this library was reportedly awarded without prior approval from the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), leading to concerns about potential diversion of the funds.

 

“Additionally, the PTDF reported payments of over N46 million (N46,974,216.43) to three companies for services without evidence of execution. One of the contractors was engaged on April 13, 2021, but was paid for services rendered in March 2021. All three contractors received payments for services not provided to the PTDF.

 

“The auditor-general fears that this money may have been diverted and has called for its recovery and returned to the treasury.

 

“The PTDF also failed to remit over N60 million (N60,355,670.03) in stamp duties from capital expenditure contracts awarded in 2019 and 2020, providing no reason for the failure to remit these funds.

 

“The auditor-general indicated that the money may have been diverted and has requested its recovery and return to the treasury.

 

“Moreover, the PTDF did not account for over N64 million (N64,088,158.44) related to payments for store items that were not supplied. The auditor-general expressed concerns about the potential diversion of these funds as well.

 

“Payments of over N41 million (N41,367,493.50) were made by the PTDF for services not yet performed or goods not yet supplied without relevant supporting documents such as invoices or receipts. Similarly, the auditor-general fears this money may be missing and has requested its recovery.

 

“In addition, the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources reportedly spent over N137 million (N137,751,789.85) from the Capital Vote on expenditures of a recurrent nature without any approval from the National Assembly or the minister of finance.

 

“The auditor-general fears that this money may also be missing and has urged its recovery and return to the treasury and sanctions for gross misconduct, as stipulated in paragraph 3129 of the Financial Regulations 2009.

 

“The ministry reportedly failed to account for over N232 million (N232,509,238.21) linked to payments made to seven companies for consultancy services,” SERAP stated.

 

A group of Nigerians in the diaspora has called on the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to launch an impartial and thorough investigation into a controversial video linked to the death of singer Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad.

The group’s request came after a press conference on Wednesday, January 15, where Nollywood actor Yomi Fabiyi claimed that Mohbad’s brother, Adura, had confessed to possessing a full video of a fight involving the late music star and his partner, Wunmi.

TheNigerian Metro reported that Mohbad’s mother, Abosede, clashed with Fabiyi during the press conference over the allegations made against Adura.

Abosede, who reacted in defence of her son, said she would have spoken up had she known the cause of Mohbad’s death.

In a statement seen by our correspondent on Wednesday, the diasporans through its forum, The Critical Thinkers Group, said the video, which was reportedly in the custody of the Lagos State Police Command homicide department was believed to be crucial in uncovering the circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s death.

Signed by its spokesperson, Toby Bart, the group in the statement noted that it was alarming that the command appeared to be reluctant to link the video to the ongoing homicide investigation, but instead focused on allegations of impersonation.

The statement partly read, “During the press conference, Adura Aloba admitted to possessing the full version of the video. He claimed the video captured a serious altercation involving Mohbad, Cynthia, and one other unidentified person, which he suggested could be linked to Mohbad’s death. However, Adura refrained from providing further details about the third individual involved.

“It is highly concerning that the Lagos Police Command appears reluctant to link this crucial video to the ongoing homicide investigation, but instead focused on allegations of impersonation.

“Given that the video is reportedly in the custody of the Lagos State Police Command and the Panti Lagos Homicide Department, it is shocking that the case is being reframed as impersonation rather than addressing the video’s importance to the homicide case. We urge the Inspector General of Police to ensure that a thorough and impartial investigation is conducted into this new evidence and the confession by Mohbad’s brother.”

The group further stated that the video needed not to be tampered with, while it called for a forensic analysis of Adura’s phone.

The Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, could not be reached for a reaction as calls made to his telephone were not responded to. A text message sent to him had yet to be replied to as of the time this report was filed.

Fabiyi had on Friday, December 13, 2024, filed a petition at the Lagos State Police Command, alleging that the deceased’s brother initiated an Instagram chat wherein he claimed to have video evidence of how Mohbad died.

Fabiyi in the petition he posted on his social media handles alleged that the chat went on with Adura demanding the sum of N3m to be paid in Bitcoin in exchange for the video evidence.

However, Adura denied the allegation stating that the chat was from his friend whom he had sold his phone to.

Mohbad died at the age of 27, on September 12, 2023, with circumstances surrounding his death sparking controversies on social media.

Being a former record label signee of Marlian Music owned by Naira Marley, Mohbad left the label in February 2022. The Lagos State Police Command had on September 18, 2023, inaugurated a 13-man special investigation team to probe the singer’s death.

His death also led to the arrest of Naira Marley and controversial Lagos socialite, Balogun Eletu, also known as Sam Larry, amongst others.

The singer’s body was on September 21, 2023, exhumed for autopsy to unravel the cause of his death.

The Nigeria Labour Congress has called on Nigerians to prepare for a nationwide boycott of telecommunication services in response to the Federal Government’s recent approval of a 50 per cent increase in telecommunication tariffs.

However, telecommunication companies insisted that the tariff hike is essential for the long-term sustainability of the sector and the improvement of services for subscribers.

This came as the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission charged the telcos to prioritise service improvements following the approval to hike telecommunication tariffs.

The NLC in a statement on Wednesday described the increment as a grave injustice to citizens already burdened by economic hardship.

NLC President, Joe Ajaero, expressed deep concern over the timing of the hike, which according to him coincides with rising inflation and declining purchasing power.

He said telecommunication services have become a basic necessity, with the average Nigerian worker spending approximately 10 per cent of their income on telecom charges.

He said, “The Nigeria Labour Congress expresses its unequivocal condemnation of the Federal Government’s recent approval, through the Nigerian Communications Commission of a 50 per cent increase in telecommunication tariffs. This decision, coming at a time when Nigerian workers and the masses are grappling with unprecedented economic hardship, is a clear assault on their welfare and an abandonment of the people to corporate fat cats.

“Telecommunication services are essential for daily communication, work, and access to information. Yet, an average Nigerian worker already spends approximately 10 per cent of their wages on telecom charges. For a worker earning the current minimum wage of N70,000, this means an increase from N7,000 to a staggering N10,500 per month or 15 per cent of his salary – an unsustainable cost.”

The NLC president criticised the government for fast-tracking the tariff approval within a month while taking nearly a year to implement the recently revised minimum wage.

He also argued that this disparity underscores the government’s bias towards corporate interests over the welfare of its citizens.

Ajaero said, “This hike exemplifies the government’s apparent ease in prioritising corporate profits over citizens’ welfare. It is shocking that the government approved this 50 per cent tariff increase for telecom companies within a month, yet took nearly a year to approve the recent minimum wage for workers, despite the rising cost of living and inflation eroding purchasing power.

“This glaring disparity underscores a troubling reality: the government appears more aligned with the interests of wealthy corporations than with the needs of the workers and citizens it is meant to serve.

“We must ask: When will the government stand for the people it swore to protect? When will the National Assembly rise to its responsibility and hold the executive accountable for policies that blatantly undermine the welfare of the majority? When will the common man heave a sigh of relief in Nigeria?”

The NLC president, however, urged Nigerians to reject the tariff hike and prepare for collective action, including the possibility of a mass boycott of telecommunication services, to compel a reversal of the increase.

“NLC is not opposed to a tariff review but disagrees with the approved rate of increase. We therefore call on the government, the NCC, and the National Assembly to stop the implementation of this ill-advised hike to allow a reasonable conversation around it. If the dialogue agrees on the need for the hike, then, we can all seek a more humane increase and definitely not this 50 per cent hike.

“The NLC calls on all Nigerian workers and masses to reject this unjustifiable tariff hike. We urge citizens to prepare for collective action, including the possibility of a nationwide boycott of telecommunication services, to compel the reversal of this punitive increase.

“This is for our dignity, our rights, and our survival as a people. The Nigeria Labour Congress remains resolute in defending the interests of Nigerian workers and the masses. We will not allow the people to bear the brunt of policies that further entrench poverty and inequality. Together, we will do our best to resist this injustice and demand that the government prioritizes the interests of its citizens over corporate interests,” the union stated.

Telcos unfazed

Since the announcement of the 50 per cent telecom tariff hike, both the Nigerian Communications Commission and Mobile Network Operators have been under intense scrutiny, with the latest opposition coming from the NLC.

Despite the backlash, telcos remain unfazed and have maintained that the tariff hike is essential for the long-term sustainability of the sector and the improvement of services for subscribers.

The Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria insisted that the implementation of the approved tariff hike, which is expected to kick off in February, will proceed as scheduled.

“Whether it’s today, tomorrow, or in the near future, the tariff implementation is set to proceed. The key question now is the value that the price adjustment will bring to subscribers,” the Chairman of ALTON, Gbenga Adebayor, told The TheNigerian.

Adebayor explained that many systems within the telecom sector are outdated and equipment requires optimisation. “We are actively working on improving the cost-mile experience significantly,” he said.

“Our goal is long-term sustainability—no telecom operator wants to provide poor service quality. Every minute of uptime contributes to revenue, and it’s crucial that we show tangible improvements in user experience and deliver something better to subscribers.”

Service improvement

Meanwhile, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission acknowledged the financial pressures faced by telecom operators; however, it urged them to prioritise service improvements.

“We unequivocally state that consumer interests remain paramount,” the consumer watchdog said, stressing that any increase in telecom tariffs must lead to tangible improvements in the quality of service.

The commission welcomed a new NCC directive requiring telecom operators to ensure that tariffs are more transparent.

It said operators must now disclose all critical details of their plans upfront, including costs, validity periods, and benefits. It noted that a mandatory disclosure table will also be introduced to help consumers make informed decisions and avoid unexpected charges.

“Consumers should no longer have to worry about hidden charges or unexpected costs,” the FCCPC emphasised.

The commission acknowledged ongoing consumer dissatisfaction with poor service quality, such as network congestion, dropped calls, inconsistent internet speeds, and inadequate customer service. It noted that consumers had consistently called for improvements in these areas before any tariff increase.

“It is crucial that tariff adjustments directly translate into demonstrable and tangible service enhancements,” the FCCPC said.

The FCCPC referred to the Memorandum of Understanding signed with the NCC, which reaffirms their joint commitment to consumer protection, fair competition, and the elimination of exploitative practices in the telecom sector.

The MoU ensures that any regulatory or pricing adjustments made by telecom operators are balanced with the interests of consumers.

“Operators must prioritise visible and measurable improvements in network reliability, speed, accessibility, and customer service as part of any tariff adjustment,” the FCCPC stated.

The commission also called on telecom operators to allocate the additional revenue generated from the tariff increase towards infrastructure development and enhanced service delivery. It emphasised the need for clear mechanisms to monitor the proper utilisation of these funds for the benefit of consumers.

“Operators must clearly communicate the rationale for the tariff adjustments to consumers, ensuring they are fully informed about how these changes align with efforts to improve service delivery and infrastructure,” it added.

One of the contestants to the throne of Alaafin of Oyo, Prince Lukman Gbadegesin, has approached a court of law to challenge the appointment and presentation of the staff of office to Prince Akeem Owoade as the new and 46th Alaafin of Oyo by Governor Seyi Makinde.

Gbadegesin, who the majority of Oyo’s Kingmakers (Oyomesi) designated as the next Alaafin, is appealing that the court set aside the appointment, approval of appointment and presentation of staff of office to Oba Owoade carried out by the Oyo State governor.

In a pre-action notice, signed by his legal representative, Adekunle Sobaloju, SAN, a copy of which was addressed to the governor, he insisted that the Governor Makinde’s actions run foul of the Oyo State Chiefs’ Law 2000.

“By announcing a different candidate, the Governor has usurped the powers of the Oyomesi, violating the Alaafin Chieftaincy Declaration of 1961, which makes the Oyomesi the sole authority for the selection of the Alaafin.

“The Governor’s alleged reliance on Ifa consultation contradicts the judgement of the Oyo State High Court of 19th December 2022, which declared Ifa consultation in the selection process unlawful, as It Is not provided for in the Alaafin Chieftaincy Declaration of 1961, and the allegations of bribery by two Oyomesi members, raised over a year after the selection, lack credibility and were not formally communicated to the Governor or investigated,” the letter read.

The lawyer noted that Gbadegesin was seeking “an order setting aside the purported appointment, approval of appointment and presentation of staff of office to Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade as Alaafin of Oyo as it was done in violation of the provisions of the Chief’s Law of Oyo State, 2000, the Registered Alaafin Chieftaincy Declaration of 1961, unlawful, unconstitutional, invalid, null and void” and a declaration that he “was validly selected and or appointed by the Kingmakers of Alaafin of Oyo as the candidate to fill the vacant stool of the Alaafin of Oyo in accordance with Chiefs Law of Oyo State, 2000 and the Registered Alaafin Chieftaincy Declaration of 1961 and therefore his appointment is valid, lawful and proper.”