Nigerian social media activist, Vincent Otse Martins, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has released an alleged voice recording involving music promoter Sam Larry and singer Zlatan Ibile, discussing the events surrounding the controversial death of late singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, also known as Mohbad.
In the audio clip, which has since gone viral, Zlatan is heard speaking in Yoruba with Sam Larry, expressing his hesitation to get involved in the aftermath of Mohbad’s death, citing the backlash and drama that typically follow speaking up on social media.
VDM posted the clip on his Instagram page and issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Zlatan to publicly clarify his role and explain his silence during the early days of the campaign for justice for Mohbad.
“I am going to be playing a voice recording between Zlatan and Sam Larry, during the time Mohbad died. Now, I expect in 48 hours Zlatan will come out to explain what he knows and why he did not speak out when we were seeking justice for Mohbad,” VDM said.
He also responded to backlash for reviving the case, insisting that many Nigerians have moved on too quickly, which discourages serious investigations and accountability.
“A lot of you are ingrates. I deliberately brought this case back because I see a lot of you have moved on. That is why our government cannot take us seriously—because we are so quick to move on,” he stated.
He further added:
“I really want to get justice for the boy. He has not been buried and his spirit is moving around. Some people knew the truth but used bullying and distractions to cover it up. And you, Zlatan, you kept quiet.”
“I don start that case again. Anybody wey no like am, make e enter bush. You are not real if you’re asking me why I brought the case back.”
Reactions on social media have been mixed, with some users defending Zlatan’s silence as strategic, while others called on him to finally speak out and clear the air on his role and knowledge of the case.
Mohbad’s sudden death in September 2023 sparked nationwide outrage, leading to calls for a thorough investigation. However, the case remains unresolved, and the late singer is yet to be buried due to ongoing legal and forensic processes.
