122
By Lizzy Chirkpi
The Magistrate Court in Ikorodu has directed that two separate Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) tests be conducted on Liam Aloba, the son of late Nigerian singer, Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad.
Magistrate Adefisoye Sonuga issued the order on Tuesday following an application by Mohbad’s father, Mr. Joseph Aloba, who is seeking to confirm the paternity of the child.
According to the ruling, the tests will take place “in an accredited and recognised hospital, both in Nigeria and abroad.”
In his application, Mr. Aloba requested that the Chief Medical Officer or Chief Pathologist at the Military Hospital, Yaba, Lagos where the late singer’s remains are currently kept be authorised “to remove any tissue, hair, or other suitable sample from the body of the deceased” for the DNA analysis.
The documents presented to the court argued that there is “uncertainty regarding the paternity of Master Liam Aloba” and that it is “imperative that the paternity be conclusively settled” due to its implications on child welfare and the respondent’s maintenance obligations.
Represented by Augustine Adegbemi from the law firm of Dr. Wahab Shittu (SAN) & Co., Mr. Aloba moved the application without opposition from the respondent’s counsel, Kabir Akingbolu, who represented the late Mohbad’s wife, Omowunmi Cynthia Aloba.
The magistrate granted the order as requested, stating:
Two DNA tests must be carried out one in Nigeria and another in an accredited medical facility abroad.
MohBad passed away abruptly on September 12, 2023, shortly after a performance. His death occurred under mysterious circumstances while being treated in a Lagos hospital for what was reportedly an ear infection . He was buried less than 24 hours later in Ikorodu, following Yoruba customs, just a decision that triggered more questions than closure .
The haste of the burial, coupled with unclear medical explanations, ignited suspicion and grief across the country.