On Thursday, the House of Representatives issued a summons to the controversial singer, Azeez Fashola, widely known as Naira Marley, concerning allegations related to the alleged non-payment of fair compensation and royalties for the late singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, also known as Mohbad, for his musical contributions.
The joint House Committees on Justice, Youth, and Legislative Compliance came together to discuss the resolution, which had been initiated following a vigorous debate on a motion presented by Hon. Babajimi Benson, Chairman of the House Committee on Defence.
The joint Committees have further decided to invite Jiggy Adeoye, the manager of the late singer, to participate in an interactive session scheduled for next week Tuesday.
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In a letter dated October 26, 2023, and signed by the Committee’s Clerk, Barrister Yusuf Ibrahim, the House determined that the presence of both Naira Marley and Mohbad’s Manager is essential to provide guidance to the Committee regarding any additional legislative steps.
The letter was routed through the President, Performing Musicians Associations of Nigeria.
The letter reads: “The House Committee on Justice, Youth and Legislative Compliance invites you and the legal team of MOHBAD for an interactive meeting session as regards a referral received being a resolution of the House of Representatives during their plenary session on Tuesday 26th September 2023 with respect to the circumstances surrounding the royalties and other benefits of Mohbad and to ascertain the level of your interaction with other relevant copyright organizations, such information will guide the committee on further legislative action.
“In view of the above, you are kindly invited for an interactive session with the chairman, Committee on Justice, Youth and legislative compliance scheduled as follows: Tuesday, 31st October, 2023
at 2:30pm.”
Mohbad, an ex-signee of Naira Marley’s record label died at 27 under unclear circumstances on 12 September.
Hon. Benson has urged a review of the pertinent regulations governing the entertainment sector and copyright laws. He also expressed apprehensions about the contracts and agreements that artists are often obligated to enter into.
During the debate on this issue at the plenary session on September 26, the lawmakers assured Mohbad’s family of their dedication to ensuring that proper compensation and royalties from his musical contributions are secured. The House has also resolved to oversee the ongoing investigation into his passing and the royalties due to him.