The Lagos State Coroner’s Court sitting in Ikorodu has directed the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to initiate criminal proceedings against Feyisayo Ogedengbe, the auxiliary nurse who administered an injection to Nigerian music star Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, shortly before his untimely death.
Mohbad, a 27-year-old Afrobeats sensation, passed away under controversial circumstances on September 12, 2023. His death sparked widespread public outcry and led to the establishment of a special investigative team to probe the events surrounding his demise.
In her ruling on Thursday, Magistrate C.A. Shotobi concluded that Ms Ogedengbe was not a certified nurse or licensed medical practitioner.
She emphasized that Ogedengbe acted illegally by administering a tetanus injection, which was alleged to have triggered the complications that resulted in the singer’s death.
The court condemned the lack of proper regulation in the healthcare sector, which it said enabled unqualified individuals to pose as medical professionals.
Quoting Section 29 of the Coroner’s Law of Lagos State, Magistrate Shotobi recommended that the unlicensed nurse be prosecuted for unlawful medical practice and gross negligence. The ruling stated:
“This court recommends the prosecution of the unlicensed medical personnel, Feyisayo Ogedengbe, by the office of the Director of Public Prosecution, for unlawful medical practice and gross negligence.”
Beyond the role of the nurse, the coroner also addressed systemic failings in other areas. The court ordered a formal investigation into the Nigeria Police Force for its failure to act on a petition submitted by Mohbad prior to his death.
The petition reportedly detailed allegations of assault and intimidation against music executive Azeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, and his associate Sam Larry.
The court expressed that the police should have treated the allegations with the seriousness they deserved, given the disturbing revelations that emerged during the inquest.
The coroner urged relevant authorities to examine whether negligence on the part of the police contributed to the circumstances that led to Mohbad’s death.
In addition, Magistrate Shotobi raised concerns about the conduct of Mohbad’s family members. She criticized the singer’s father for approving a hurried burial without ensuring that an autopsy was conducted, which could have provided immediate clarity on the cause of death.
The court also faulted Mohbad’s wife for attempting to treat him at home instead of seeking urgent and professional medical attention as his condition worsened.
Overall, the court’s findings pointed to a combination of professional misconduct, institutional failure, and personal misjudgment that together contributed to the tragic death of the young artist.
The coroner’s recommendations, if implemented, could serve as a precedent for improved medical regulation, better law enforcement responsiveness, and heightened public awareness around emergency healthcare decisions.