The late singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, was posthumously celebrated with multiple awards at the 17th edition of The Headies Awards, held on Sunday.
Mohbad received several prestigious accolades, including Best Street-Hop Artiste for his hit single Ask About Me, Best Collaboration for Egwu with Chike, and Afrobeats Single of the Year for the same track.
This recognition comes almost two years after his untimely death in September 2023, a tragedy that profoundly impacted the Nigerian music industry and sparked nationwide grief.
His family, including his wife, Omowunmi Aloba, and their young son, Liam, accepted the awards on his behalf, receiving a standing ovation from an emotional audience.
‘Mohbad Lives On’
In an emotional acceptance speech, Omowunmi said:
“On behalf of myself, our son Liam, my husband’s immediate brother Adura, and the rest of the Imolenization family, we sincerely thank you for this award.
Although Mohbad is no longer with us physically, he lives on. I prefer not to refer to him as my late husband because he lives forever, especially through our son, Liam.
He may be too young now to fully understand the depth of his father’s greatness, but I am confident that, one day, he will realise how his father’s voice has touched countless lives — how his music brings joy, happiness, and courage to people.
Mohbad mattered, and he continues to matter.
Thank you to The Headies for shining a light on my husband’s legacy. It means so much to me, to Liam, and to the entire Imolenization family.”
Also Read: Full List of 17th Headies Awards Winners
The ceremony featured a moving tribute to Mohbad, including a montage and a short performance by street-hop artistes, celebrating the profound impact he made and the void his passing has left in the industry.
The 17th edition of The Headies, widely regarded as Nigeria’s most prestigious music awards, was themed Back to Base and Apologetically African, marking a vibrant return to Nigeria after two editions held abroad.
Hosted by Nollywood actress and media personality Nancy Isime, the evening was infused with charisma, humour, and high energy.
The stage saw a series of unforgettable performances, from Fireboy DML’s soulful acoustic set to a surprise joint performance by Olamide and Shallipopi.
Chike, who collaborated with Mohbad on Egwu, emerged as one of the night’s biggest winners, bagging both the Viewers’ Choice Award and Best Music Video.
Rema won Afrobeats Album of the Year for his project HEIS, Davido was named Digital Artiste of the Year, while Tems claimed Best Recording of the Year for her soulful track Burning.
This edition also introduced two new categories — Soundtrack of the Year and Best Performer (Live), expanding the scope of recognition for outstanding contributions to the music industry.
