Nigerian street-hop sensation, Bella Shmurda, has revealed how the untimely death of his close friend and collaborator, Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, drastically changed his outlook on life.

Speaking during a recent TikTok livestream with Joblaq, Bella Shmurda, described Mohbad’s passing as a turning point that forced him to re-evaluate his priorities, mindset, and personal growth.

“RIP Mohbad. After he passed away, my brain reset, everything changed. The way I see things in life also changed,” Bella Shmurda said, his tone filled with emotion.

“There’s a time that our parents used to tell us when we misbehave, ‘Don’t worry, very soon you will understand.’ I’m currently in that phase where I’m starting to understand. I have understood certain things.”


Bella Shmurda and Mohbad shared more than just a professional relationship. They were frequent collaborators, with hit records like Pariwo and Imole that captured the raw essence of Nigerian street music.

Their synergy made them fan favorites, and their bond went beyond music into genuine brotherhood.

Mohbad’s shocking death on September 12, 2023, under controversial circumstances, left a gaping hole in the Nigerian music industry.

The tragedy sparked nationwide protests, investigations, and ongoing demands for justice.

For Bella, however, the loss was deeply personal, forcing him into a period  self-reflection and rediscovery.


Since Mohbad’s passing, Bella Shmurda has taken a more introspective approach to life and music. He admitted that grief altered his creative direction, helping him focus more on purposeful art and meaningful connections.

“I used to think I understood life, but losing Mohbad made me realize I was just living without clarity. Now, I approach things differently. It’s painful, but it taught me growth,” he explained.

Industry insiders note that Bella Shmurda has been working on a new body of work that reflects this transformation.

Fans have also observed a shift in his lyrics and performances, highlighting maturity and resilience in the face of tragedy.



Despite the controversies surrounding Mohbad’s death, his legacy continues to inspire young Nigerian artists.

His music, especially tracks like Peace and Feel Good, remain anthems of hope and resilience. Bella Shmurda emphasized that Mohbad’s spirit still motivates him to push harder in his career.

“He was more than a friend; he was a brother. Every time I perform, I feel his presence. His dream was bigger than himself, and I will continue to honor that,” Bella added.


Bella Shmurda also used the platform to caution young Nigerians, especially upcoming musicians, about the challenges of fame, industry politics, and the importance of mental health.

He noted that losing Mohbad made him realize the fragility of life and the need to cherish loved ones while they are still here.

As fans continue to celebrate Mohbad’s legacy and Bella Shmurda’s evolving journey, the singer’s revelation serves as a reminder that grief, though painful, can spark personal transformation and resilience.