Naira Marley demands N500m from Iyabo Ojo for ‘defamation’

Naira Marley the Nigerian singer, has demanded an apology from Iyabo Ojo for alleged defamation.

On September 12, Mohbad, Marley’s former label signee, died under mysterious circumstances.

His demise stirred up controversies on social media with several calls and cries for justice from colleagues and fans.

Ojo accused Marley of having a hand in Mohbad’s death.

She also alleged that the singer “spiked my children’s food and drinks with drugs during visits to his residence”.

Marley and Sam Larry, his associate, were arrested in October but released on bail in November after over five weeks in detention.

In a letter through his lawyers on Tuesday, Marley described Ojo’s statement as “false and damaging”.

He also demanded that the actress issue a retraction and a public apology on her Instagram page and in a national daily within seven days.

“It is our instruction that sometimes in September, 2023, you maliciously and falsely published of and concerning our client on your official Instagram handle “iyaboojofespris”,” the letter reads in part.

“Your publication of the above words on the Internet which is readily accessible to users of the system constituted a serious libel and has caused our client colossal damage to his reputation.

“Our client requires you within seven days after the receipt or delivery of this letter an unequivocal retraction.

“The public apology is to be published on your official Instagram handle “@iyaboojofespris” and also on one national daily.”

The lawyers added that failure to comply may result in legal action seeking N500 million in damages.