The circumstances surrounding Mohbad's death and the challenges he faced within the Marlin record label highlight the deep-seated rot within the music industry. These issues underscore the urgent need for government intervention to clean up the industry and potentially establish a legal framework for not only the music sector but also other creative industries.

In any environment or organization lacking proper regulations, individuals tend to act without restraint. The music industry, in particular, can be likened to a world where only the powerful and well-connected thrive. This has led to claims of cultism and other fraternities operating within the industry for protection against the mafias like Naira Marley and Kcee limpopo. While Mohbad's situation remains tragic given his demise, it has shed light on a pressing issue that the government cannot ignore, lest more young artists experience the fate and tragedy of Mohbad.

The allegations against Azeez Fashola, also known as Naira Marley, withholding royalties and catalogs from Mohbad due to personal ego and power dynamics only mirror a pattern seen in the industry and not just by Naira Marley. This pattern extends to cases like that of the young flute talent Ojazzy Igbonile, who was exploited by Kcee Limpopo, with whom he recorded the popular Oja piano. Many of us defended Kcee when the little boy cried out, without understanding the underlying issues that may have led to the claims of exploitation by those around Ojazzy. These young and naive talents, driven by a desire for success, often fall victim to established artists and record labels that offer them meager compensation for their talents. In the case of Kcee Limpopo and Ojazzy, the young flutist claimed that Kcee took him to the studio and recorded over seven (7) flute performances by him without any payment or reward, not even agreement on royalties. Instead, Kcee Limpopo requested that he be grateful that he had given him access to his palatial home and recorded music with him. To date, I cannot confirm if the young boy has been paid a commensurate reward for his catalog and royalties from Oja-piano and Oja-ginger.

This pattern of exploitation has persisted within the music industry, affecting numerous talents both in the past and present. Only a fraction have been able to triumph. It's high time the industry undergoes a transformation, with the government stepping in to protect the rights and well-being of its creative talents and establish a fair and just system for all involved.

Mohbad couldn't have died for nothing.

#justiceformohbad

Uloka Chibuike is the convener, Transparency Youth Advocates and Public Policy Critic.