The Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, provided a key update regarding the investigation into the death of singer Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad.
Speaking at a press conference at the Ministry of Justice in Alausa, Ikeja, on October 21, Pedro disclosed that the toxicology report and other forensic analyses from the United States have been received. This development represents significant progress in the ongoing inquiry into Mohbad’s tragic death, which has garnered widespread attention.
Pedro revealed that the autopsy report is now with the Lagos State pathologist and the coroner magistrate, marking a step forward in the case. He acknowledged the delays in the investigation, explaining that thorough forensic examinations, especially those conducted overseas, require substantial time to ensure accuracy.
The Attorney General stressed the importance of these processes, which are vital to ensuring that justice is served in a case of this magnitude.
While addressing the delays, Pedro emphasized the necessity of a meticulous and comprehensive approach to the investigation. He noted that such an approach is crucial to securing a conviction if the case proceeds to court. Pedro stated, “On the Mohbad case, yes, I agree there has been a delay, and the delay is caused by the time taken for investigation.”
His remarks underscored the importance of allowing the forensic process to be completed thoroughly before conclusions can be reached.
The Attorney General highlighted the critical role forensic analysis plays in such investigations. Toxicology and other forensic tests are essential to establishing key facts about Mohbad’s death.
Pedro pointed out that such tests provide evidence that could lead to a conviction in a court of law, reinforcing the need for a full-proof investigation. His comments stressed that the forensic findings would form the backbone of any legal proceedings moving forward.
Pedro also provided insight into why the toxicology examination had to be conducted in the United States. He clarified that the Lagos DNA and Forensic Centre was destroyed during the #EndSARS protests in October 2020, leaving the state with limited local forensic resources.
This necessitated the outsourcing of critical parts of the investigation to international forensic laboratories, further contributing to the delay in obtaining results.
