Mohbad’s family demands disclosure of US laboratory for son’s DNA test
The family of the late Nigerian singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, widely known as Mohbad, is seeking clarity regarding a DNA test set to determine the paternity of his son, Liam. They are demanding the identification of the U.S. laboratory responsible for conducting the test and are calling for a postponement of the examination, originally scheduled for Saturday, October 31, 2026, at Mainland General Hospital in Yaba, Lagos.
In a statement released on Thursday, October 29, Samuel Aloba, the family head, expressed concerns regarding the process for collecting biological samples in Nigeria. There is uncertainty about whether the Lagos State DNA and Forensic Centre, mentioned in a May 5 court order, will perform the examination or merely facilitate the collection and shipping of samples to an undisclosed lab in the United States.
The family argued that any arrangements deviating from the court’s directives should be clearly explained and, if necessary, referred back to the court for clarification. They are requesting the full name and address of the proposed U.S. laboratory, along with evidence of its accreditation and technical competence. Additionally, they seek details about the methods for collecting, preserving, transporting, and analyzing the samples.
The Alobas have raised concerns about reports indicating that the laboratory’s name might only be disclosed to the court, insisting that transparency and accountability must not be compromised. The family emphasizes their intent to ensure that the DNA test results are scientifically credible and subject to independent verification.
“In a matter as sensitive as Mohbad’s DNA, the result must not merely be announced; it must be demonstrably reliable,” the statement read. The family also referenced previous complications regarding the handling of biological samples related to Mohbad’s post-mortem examination, claiming inquiries suggested that the laboratory, which reportedly received samples from that examination, had not received any specimens registered in his name.
While acknowledging that these claims are based on their investigations and not independent findings, the family reiterated their support for a credible DNA examination to resolve the paternity issue. They have requested that the DNA test be postponed until their concerns are addressed, and that all parties and their legal representatives receive adequate notice before proceeding, in accordance with any necessary court directions.
The paternity of Mohbad’s son, Liam, has been contentious since the singer’s death, with disputes arising between his father, Joseph Aloba, and his widow, Omowunmi Aloba. This ongoing disagreement continues despite previous court orders mandating the DNA examination to establish the child’s biological parentage.
