Wale Jagun
The House of Representatives, on Tuesday, invited the Nigeria Copyright Commission (NCC), in its quest to protect late Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba’s (popularly called Mohbad) royalties from his songs and lyrics.
This followed the adoption of a motion by Rep. Babajimi Benson, representative of the Ikorodu Federal Constituency, at the resumed plenary of the House in Abuja.
Mohbad, 27, died in a very controversial circumstance on September 12, 2023, and was buried the following day in Ikorodu. His death has, however, generated public outrage and protest.
Following this, the Lagos Police Command, last Thursday, exhumed his body for autopsy for proper investigation into his death.
According to a release by Rep. Benson, on his social media handle today, he said:
“I moved a motion on the floor of the House of Representatives, over the mystery surrounding the demise of the talented artist, Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad. #JusticeForMohbad.
In his motion, the three term lawmaker said that he urged the House to “observe 1 minute silence in honour of Mohbad, and gathered information regarding the circumstances leading to his demise.
“Monitor the ongoing investigation of MohBad’s death, particularly the allegations of harassment and unpaid royalties.
“Invite the Nigeria Copyright Commission (NCC) to put measures in place immediately to protect the rights of Mohbad’s songs and lyrics, address copyright infringements and ensure proper management of his musical assets, while securing his son’s benefits from his musical legacy.
“Collaborate with stakeholders, including record labels, artistes, legal experts and industry associations to develop and implement industry-wide guidelines that ensure fair treatment, transparent contractual agreements and proper compensation for artistes.
“Review existing copyright and contract laws in Nigeria.
“Identify gaps or areas in need of reforms, and
“Mandate the committees on Justice, Youth Development and Legal Compliance to ensure compliance”.
Following Rep. Benson’s prayers, the House resolved that the Nigeria Copyright Commission (NCC) must immediately put measures in place to protect the rights of Mohbad’s songs and lyrics, address copyright infringements and ensure the proper management of his musical assets, while securing his son’s benefits from his musical legacy.
Also, the House will monitor the ongoing investigation of Mohbad’s death, particularly the allegations of harassment and unpaid royalties.
It will also collaborate with relevant stakeholders, including record labels, artistes, legal experts and industry associations, to develop and implement industry-wide guidelines that ensure fair treatment, transparent contractual agreements, and proper compensation for artistes, review existing copyright and contract laws in Nigeria, and identify gaps or areas in need of reform.
