The Federal High Court in Abuja has approved an application by a non-governmental organisation seeking permission to request a mandamus order compelling the Inspector-General of Police to reopen and thoroughly reinvestigate the death of Nigerian singer, Mohbad.
Justice James Omotosho gave the ruling following an ex-parte motion filed by the Registered Trustees of Break the Silence Foundation. The court held that the organisation has the legal standing to pursue an order directing the police to fully carry out their statutory duties under the Police Act 2020.
The NGO, through its counsel Chief Tunde Falola, is seeking a court order compelling the Inspector-General of Police, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Lagos State Commissioner of Police to conduct a comprehensive reinvestigation into the circumstances surrounding the singer’s death in September 2023.
In the ruling, the judge also granted leave for the organisation to seek an order compelling the police to invite and question key individuals who were reportedly close to the deceased, including his wife and other associates, as well as his father, Joseph Aloba.
The court further allowed the NGO to request that the police arrest and prosecute any person found to be directly or indirectly linked to the death, where evidence exists. It also approved substituted service of court documents through the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
The case was adjourned to May 4, 2026, for hearing.
According to court filings, the NGO argued that earlier police investigations were incomplete and failed to fully examine all relevant persons connected to the case. It also claimed that despite public pressure and prior directives for a fresh investigation, concerns remain about the thoroughness and neutrality of the probe.
Mohbad’s death has continued to generate public attention and controversy since 2023, with widespread calls for a transparent and conclusive investigation.
