The death of Nigerian Afrobeats artist Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, in September 2023, ignited a firestorm of controversy, legal battles, and public speculation. Amidst the clamor for justice and investigations into the circumstances surrounding his demise, a quieter but equally significant legal drama unfolded, centered on the paternity of his only child, Liam, born just months before his untimely passing. This paternity dispute brought Mohbad’s father, Mr. Joseph Aloba, and the singer’s widow, Omowunmi Cynthia Aloba, to a Lagos State Magistrate Court in Ikorodu, where a crucial ruling was handed down concerning the future of young Liam.
The court proceedings, presided over by Magistrate Adefisoye Sonuga, revolved around an application filed by Mr. Joseph Aloba seeking a definitive resolution to the paternity question. He requested the court to mandate DNA testing to ascertain Liam’s biological father. Driving his plea was the cloud of uncertainty hanging over the child’s parentage, a matter with far-reaching implications for inheritance, child support, and the overall welfare of the young boy. Mr. Aloba argued that public speculation and lingering doubts surrounding Liam’s paternity necessitated a conclusive scientific determination. This, he stressed, was vital not only for his peace of mind but also for establishing the legal framework for Liam’s future care and well-being.
The court, recognizing the gravity of the situation and the potential long-term consequences for the child, granted Mr. Aloba’s request. Magistrate Sonuga ordered not one but two DNA tests to be conducted. One test was to take place within Nigeria, while the other was to be carried out in a recognized and accredited medical facility outside the country. This dual approach aimed to ensure the highest level of accuracy and transparency in the paternity determination. The court further stipulated that both parties or their representatives must be present during sample collection, guaranteeing the integrity of the process. This meticulous approach to the DNA testing reflects the court’s commitment to achieving a definitive and indisputable outcome.
The logistics of obtaining the necessary samples for the DNA analysis presented a unique challenge. Given Mohbad’s passing, the court directed that tissue or hair samples be retrieved from the singer’s remains, which were being preserved at the Military Hospital in Yaba, Lagos. This delicate operation required sensitivity and adherence to strict protocols to ensure the integrity of the samples and respect for the deceased. The court’s order emphasized that the DNA tests must be conducted in government-approved medical facilities, underscoring the importance of adhering to established standards and procedures. This careful orchestration of the sample collection and testing process aimed to eliminate any potential challenges to the validity of the results.
The court’s decision marks a significant step forward in resolving the paternity dispute that has captivated public attention since Mohbad’s death. The legal proceedings highlighted the complex interplay of personal grief, legal rights, and public scrutiny that often follows the death of a prominent figure. Mr. Aloba’s pursuit of DNA testing underscores the importance of establishing legal parentage, not just for inheritance purposes, but also for the emotional well-being and future security of the child involved. The court’s ruling provides a pathway to answer these critical questions, paving the way for a more stable and secure future for young Liam.
The adjourned date for further proceedings, set for November 11, 2025, allows ample time for the DNA testing process to be completed and for the results to be analyzed. This timeline underscores the court’s commitment to a thorough and comprehensive approach to the matter, ensuring all necessary steps are taken before a final determination is made. The courtroom drama surrounding Liam’s paternity serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of family relationships, particularly when intertwined with public scrutiny and legal disputes. The outcome of the DNA tests will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for the young boy and those closest to him, shaping the narrative of his life and inheritance in the years to come.
