PUNCH
On September 23, 2023, exactly 11 days after singer, Ilerioluwa Aloba, known as Mohbad died, DAMILOLA OLUFEMI visited his father, Joseph Aloba and spoke with him on the artiste.
Mohbad, whose fans also referred to as Imole (Light), was a former signee of Marlian Music, a record label owned by Azeez Fashola, also known as Naira Marley.
He carved the name, “Mohbad” meaning Moh (I am) Bad (Bright and destined) after he recorded a song and was hailed for his excellence, he explained in a video.
Mohbad exited Marlian Music in 2022, in what appeared not to be a friendly departure.
Locating Mr Joseph Aloba’s (Mohbad’s father) house from the Ikorodu garage was quite easy. Getting to his residence, this reporter noticed the absence of a crowd within the compound – everywhere seemed quiet and looked like nothing had happened.
The hope of this reporter to sign a condolence register was dashed as there was nothing of such present.
Stepping inside Aloba’s living room, this reporter noticed that there was no picture of Mohbad anywhere. This according to Aloba was because he “can’t keep seeing his picture in this mood. I had to remove all his pictures.”
The light that shone
The name “Imole” holds deep meaning, signifying the radiant light he brought into the world. Mohbad’s musical journey began with a desire to make a difference, fueled by his love for music and his father’s influence. Despite his untimely passing, his legacy lives on through his music and the impact he had on those who knew him.
Early exposure to music
On the street of Oke-Iletu, Ikorodu, Lagos State, Mohbad, was born. He carved out a unique place in the hearts of his community. This neighbourhood, which he proudly called home, witnessed the early chapters of his life. Born in Apa but settling in Oke-Iletu at a young age, Mohbad navigated the bustling streets with the dreams and aspirations of a young boy.
“He had his childhood here, but he was born around Apa. They started living here (Oke-Iletu) when he was around 10 to 12 years old,” a source and resident disclosed.
Mohbad’s father’s involvement in music paved the way for this serendipitous moment. The offer came from the owner of the house they worked at, and Mohbad’s journey in music began.
A significant turning point occurred when opportunity knocked in the form of a family friend. This friend introduced Mohbad to a potential opportunity in the music industry, where Mohbad was offered N30,000 for a studio recording session.
Mohbad’s father, Aloba, a musician himself, played a pivotal role in shaping his son’s musical journey. Residents fondly remembered him as “Omo Oba,” the son of a man deeply rooted in his musical craft.
