The Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a suit seeking to compel the police to reopen investigations into the circumstances surrounding the death of singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad.
Justice James Omotosho, in a judgment delivered on Thursday, held that the applicant lacked the legal standing to institute the suit and failed to provide sufficient evidence to support its claims.
The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/363/2026, was filed by the Registered Trustees of Break the Silence Foundation against the Inspector-General of Police, the Nigeria Police Force and the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command.
The NGO had sought a judicial review and an order of mandamus compelling the police to conduct a fresh investigation into Mohbad’s death.
Mohbad died in Lagos on September 12, 2023.
The applicant argued that the police had previously investigated the case but failed to conduct a thorough inquiry, alleging that some of the singer’s relatives were not questioned.
However, Justice Omotosho said the group failed to attach the report of the earlier investigation to establish that the investigation was inadequate or that the persons mentioned were not interviewed.
According to the judge, the failure to provide the report rendered the applicant’s claims speculative and unproven.
The court also criticised lawyers involved in the case for granting media interviews and making social media posts while the matter was pending.
Justice Omotosho warned that lawyers must refrain from commenting publicly on pending cases, stressing that such actions could influence public perception of evidence before the court.
He further warned that the court could invoke its contempt powers against any lawyer who disregards the order.
In his final ruling, Justice Omotosho dismissed the suit for lack of locus standi and merit.