Musical artist Owodunni Ibrahim, widely known as Primeboy, has filed a lawsuit against the Nigeria Police Force, alleging violations of his fundamental human rights.
On October 4, 2023, the Lagos State Police Command declared Primeboy wanted after he failed to respond to a police invitation related to the ongoing investigation into the death of fellow artist Ilerioluwa Aloba, known as Mohbad.
Primeboy’s legal representative, Akinpelu Ogunbona, confirmed that the suit was submitted to the Federal High Court in Ikoyi. The artist is seeking the removal of his name from the wanted list, among other legal remedies.
“Primeboy has initiated legal action against the police through an originating motion filed on October 11. He is requesting the court to declare that the special police gazette bulletin issued by the Inspector General of Police, which declared him wanted, constitutes a violation of his right to dignity. He is also asking to be delisted from the wanted list,” Ogunbona stated.
Since Mohbad’s death on September 12, 2023, at the age of 27, Primeboy has found himself at the center of the ensuing controversies. He voluntarily reported to the police less than 24 hours after being declared wanted.
The circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s death have ignited widespread speculation and debate on social media. A former signee of Marlian Music, founded by Naira Marley, Mohbad departed from the label in February 2022.
In response to the case, the Lagos State Police Command established a 13-member special investigation team on September 18, 2023, to delve into the details of Mohbad’s death. The investigation has also led to the arrests of Naira Marley and controversial Lagos socialite Balogun Eletu, also known as Sam Larry.
On September 21, 2023, Mohbad’s remains were exhumed for an autopsy to determine the cause of death.
