Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo has decided to cancel her planned peaceful walk in Lagos, originally intended to demand justice for the late Nigerian singer, Mohbad, whose death on September 12 has fueled intense controversy on social media.
Mohbad’s untimely demise was marked by his burial the very next day, intensifying the need for answers surrounding the circumstances of his passing.
In response to this tragic event, thousands of Nigerian youths took to the streets across various cities on Tuesday. Many held placards, while others organized candlelight processions to honor the memory of Mohbad.
Earlier, Iyabo Ojo had announced her intention to lead a peaceful rally from Oba Akran to the Lagos State Executive and Legislative Houses on Wednesday, as a means to draw attention to the need for justice in Mohbad’s case.
However, in a statement released on Tuesday night, the actress conveyed her decision to cancel the peaceful walk due to concerns raised by law enforcement agencies, who feared that it could be exploited by unscrupulous individuals and miscreants.
The statement explained that instead of the initially planned peaceful walk, a select few members of Ojo’s team will now visit the offices of the Lagos State government to “register their concerns.”
Part of the statement read, “The cancellation of the peaceful walk is based on the reservations expressed by law enforcement agents, who believe that it could be hijacked by unscrupulous persons and miscreants, thereby endangering lives and property.”
“In light of these concerns, our clients have resolved to proceed alongside only a few members of the foundation to visit the aforementioned offices, with the goal of registering their concerns and engaging in dialogue for the timely delivery of justice.”
The statement concluded, “Our clients are grateful for the overwhelming support from various quarters, and they trust that the appropriate security agencies will not disappoint Mold’s family, fans, and the Nigerian youth during this grievous hour.”
The cancellation of the peaceful walk underscores the delicate balance between exercising the right to protest and ensuring public safety in Nigeria, as the nation grapples with the aftermath of Mohbad’s mysterious passing.