By John Umeh
In a significant turn of events in the investigation into the death of late Nigerian singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, the Lagos State Coroner’s Court has ordered the prosecution of an auxiliary nurse, identified as Feyisayo Ogedengbe, over her alleged role in the tragic incident. The court, sitting at the Ikorodu Magistrate Court, concluded that Ogedengbe acted with gross negligence and practiced medicine unlawfully — a combination that allegedly contributed to Mohbad’s untimely demise.
Delivering its findings after months of inquest and testimony from witnesses, medical experts, and law enforcement officials, the Coroner, Magistrate Adedayo Shotobi, stated that the nurse administered an injection of Tetanus Toxoid, Paracetamol, and an antibiotic — all without proper medical evaluation or the authority to do so. According to the court, these actions constituted unlawful medical practice and a reckless disregard for professional standards.
“The manner in which the drugs were administered was inappropriate and directly linked to the subsequent medical complications that led to the death of the deceased,” the coroner ruled. “The auxiliary nurse was neither licensed to prescribe nor administer such medications. Her actions amounted to gross negligence.”
The court further directed that the findings be forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for immediate legal action. Legal analysts believe that Ogedengbe could face charges related to involuntary manslaughter and illegal medical practice — offenses that carry severe penalties under Nigerian law.
Mohbad, a rising star in Nigeria’s music industry and a former signee of Marlian Records, died on September 12, 2023, under controversial circumstances. His death sparked nationwide outrage, protests, and demands for justice, particularly after videos and messages surfaced indicating that the singer may have been under distress in the days leading to his death. The Coroner’s inquest was part of efforts by the Lagos State Government to respond to the massive public outcry and ensure transparency in the investigation.
Public reaction to the court’s ruling has been swift and emotional. Fans and fellow artistes have praised the decision as a major step toward justice. “It’s been a long road, but this shows we are making progress,” one supporter said outside the courthouse. “Mohbad deserves justice, and everyone responsible must be held accountable.”
Human rights advocates and medical associations have also weighed in, with many calling for tighter regulation of medical practice in Nigeria. “This case exposes a dangerous gap in enforcement of healthcare standards,” said Dr. Ayo Ajibade, a health policy expert. “Auxiliary nurses should never be in a position to handle medications or procedures without supervision.”
As the case proceeds to the criminal justice system, all eyes will be on the DPP’s office to see how swiftly the prosecution moves and whether further individuals may also be held accountable in connection to Mohbad’s death. For many Nigerians, this is more than a legal proceeding — it is a test of the state’s ability to deliver justice in a case that has become symbolic of broader societal issues, including healthcare regulation, celebrity exploitation, and youth vulnerability.
