Controversial Nigerian show promoter and associate of Marlian Music, Sam Larry, has finally broken his silence and shared a detailed account regarding his alleged involvement in the series of events that many believe contributed to the tragic demise of the late singer Mohbad, also known as Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba.
Speaking in a highly anticipated and emotional interview with popular social media activist Verydarkman, Sam Larry addressed the widely circulated viral video showing him confronting Mohbad at a beach event — a clip that sparked outrage and painted him as an aggressor in the eyes of the public.
In his defense, Sam Larry firmly denied ever physically assaulting or harming Mohbad. He insisted that the video, which only lasted 9 seconds, had been grossly misinterpreted and taken out of context by many online users. According to him, the confrontation was strictly business-related, stemming from an unfulfilled performance engagement for which he had paid Mohbad.
“That video was just 9 seconds. I was with my son at the beach when I saw Mohbad. I approached him to demand a refund for a show he didn’t perform at. Zlatan was there and immediately intervened to calm the situation. There was no physical assault or violence from my side,” Sam Larry explained, trying to set the record straight.
When pressed on why popular rapper Zlatan Ibile, who was present during the incident, never came out publicly to confirm that no harm was done to Mohbad, Sam Larry alleged that Zlatan was deliberately warned to stay away from the controversy for his safety.
“Zlatan said if he talks, blood go come out from his mouth,” Sam Larry claimed, suggesting the existence of threats aimed at silencing people close to the case.
Addressing rumors about his whereabouts during Mohbad’s untimely death in September 2023, Sam Larry revealed that he was in Dubai at the time, while Naira Marley, who has also faced intense scrutiny, was in Amsterdam. This, he argued, proved that they could not have been directly involved in the tragic incident.
The promoter also expressed frustration over the narrative that has followed him since Mohbad’s death, emphasizing that he has faced serious emotional and reputational damage as a result. He maintained that he never intended to harm Mohbad and that their disagreements were purely professional, centered on contractual disputes rather than personal animosity.
Sam Larry’s appearance with Verydarkman has ignited a fresh wave of reactions online. While some netizens expressed skepticism and questioned the timing and sincerity of his statements, others felt his explanation offered new insight into the case and showed a different side of the story that had been overshadowed by online speculation and misinformation.
The interview has further fueled public interest in the unresolved circumstances of Mohbad’s death and highlighted the deep tensions within the Nigerian entertainment industry, particularly concerning artist-promoter relationships and the pressure young artists face.
Watch the full interview video below and share your thoughts…