Controversial show promoter Sam Larry has addressed the ongoing coroner’s inquest into the death of Afrobeat artist Mohbad, whose real name was Ilerioluwa Aloba, during a virtual appearance.
In his statement, Sam Larry firmly denied any involvement in Mohbad’s death or any allegations of harassment against the late artist. His comments come in response to a viral video that sparked public outrage, which linked him to the harassment of Mohbad before his tragic passing.
“I am just a show promoter. My only connection to Mohbad was that I gave him shows. I never harassed him or physically assaulted him,” Sam Larry stated during his testimony.
He explained that their issues began when he invited Mohbad to perform at his birthday event in Dubai, offering him N2 million as part of the agreement. Sam Larry claimed to have spent over N20 million organizing the event and covering travel expenses for Mohbad, his wife, and manager. However, Mohbad did not show up for the performance, which caused tension between the two.
Sam Larry recounted sending Mohbad a message on Instagram, requesting the refund of his money, but claimed Mohbad did not respond. He said he then involved his lawyer, who contacted Mohbad, but he still did not reply.
He also shared an incident on June 25, 2023, at a video shoot at Elegushi Beach, where he confronted Mohbad. According to Sam Larry, there was no physical altercation, and the situation was peacefully resolved with the help of artist Zlatan, who later joined them for a meal.
After this incident, Mohbad reportedly filed a petition accusing Sam Larry of bringing weapons to the beach and damaging his equipment. Sam Larry explained that he was invited to the Alagbon police station for questioning and was detained during the investigation. Despite several summons, Mohbad did not appear, leading Sam Larry to file a counter-petition.
“Up until his death, he didn’t return my N2 million. He passed away three months after we met at Elegushi,” Sam Larry added, expressing his sadness upon learning of Mohbad’s death while he was in Dubai.
Regarding the controversial video where Sam Larry is heard saying, “won ti gbe sin” (they have buried him), he clarified that it was an old video from 2013, originally posted on Snapchat, and had no connection to Mohbad.
In conclusion, Sam Larry urged the court to question those who were with Mohbad during the 24 to 48 hours leading up to his death, asserting, “They know what really happened to him.”