In the wake of the untimely demise of Nigerian singer Mohbad, two prominent music channels, MTV Base and SoundCity, have made the decision to ban all content associated with Marlian Music. This move comes as a response to allegations of bullying and mistreatment leveled against Naira Marley, the owner of Marlian Music, by the late artist, Mohbad.
Mohbad, a former signee under Marlian Records, tragically passed away on Tuesday, September 12, 2023, leaving the Nigerian music industry in shock and mourning. His death has reignited concerns surrounding the treatment of artists within the Marlian Music stable.
In response to the mounting controversy, several radio stations have taken the unprecedented step of imposing a “not to be broadcast” (NTTB) ban on songs from Marlian Music. This prohibition encompasses tracks by all artists currently signed to the label, including prominent names like CBlvck, Zinoleesky, and Tori Keeche, among others.
Adding to the growing list of music outlets distancing themselves from Marlian Music, MTV Base and SoundCity, two influential music channels in Nigeria, have joined the movement. The decision was announced by Ehizojie Okoeguale, popularly known as DadaBoy Ehiz, a staff member at MTV Base and a well-known TV host, through his social media platform, X.
Ehizojie Okoeguale, in a post shared on his X page, declared: “MTV Base has dropped everything Marlian. Kudos to them.” This bold move by MTV Base and SoundCity underscores the seriousness of the allegations against Naira Marley and the growing demand for accountability within the Nigerian music industry.
The ban on Marlian Music content by MTV Base and SoundCity is expected to have significant implications for the label and its associated artists. It remains to be seen how Naira Marley and Marlian Music will respond to these developments as the industry grapples with the aftermath of Mohbad’s tragic passing and the allegations of mistreatment that have come to light.