Nigerian social media activist Vincent Otse Martins, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has stirred public attention once again by releasing an alleged voice recording involving singer Zlatan Ibile and music promoter Sam Larry.
The audio clip, which has since gone viral, reportedly captures a conversation between the two men discussing the tragic death of rising music star Ilerioluwa Aloba, better known as Mohbad.
In the recording, Zlatan, speaking in Yoruba, is heard expressing hesitation about getting involved in the public controversy that followed Mohbad’s sudden passing in September 2023. He cited the backlash and chaos that often come with speaking out on sensitive matters, especially on social media.
VDM issues 48-hour ultimatum
VeryDarkMan, who uploaded the audio to his Instagram page, is not taking Zlatan’s silence lightly. He issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the rapper, demanding that he publicly explain what he knows about the events surrounding Mohbad’s death and why he chose to remain silent during the early calls for justice.
“I am going to play a voice recording between Zlatan and Sam Larry, recorded around the time Mohbad died,” VDM said in a video shared on his page. “I expect Zlatan to come out in the next 48 hours to explain what he knows and why he didn’t speak when we were seeking justice.”
VeryDarkMan Renew push for justice
The activist also addressed critics who questioned his decision to revisit the case. He argued that many Nigerians had moved on too quickly from the issue, which he believes has hindered the pursuit of justice. According to him, the refusal of the public to keep the case alive has allowed key players to escape scrutiny.
“A lot of people have asked why I brought back the Mohbad case,” VDM said. “That alone shows many of you were never serious about getting justice. I brought it back because I noticed people have moved on, and that’s the same reason our government doesn’t take us seriously. We forget too fast.”
He went further, saying, “I want justice for that boy. He hasn’t even been buried yet. His spirit is still wandering. Some people know the truth but have been using intimidation and silence to bury it. And Zlatan, you chose to keep quiet.”
Blunt criticism and social media reaction
In his usual blunt manner, the RATEL MOVEMENT leader accused Zlatan of abandoning the cause at a crucial time and called out those defending the singer’s silence. “I have reopened this case. If you don’t like it, go into the bush. You’re not real if you ask why I’m speaking about this again,” he said.
“You say you wanted justice, yet you’re telling me to leave the case. Many of you are fake. You never truly wanted justice.”
The video triggered strong reactions online. While some users defended Zlatan, suggesting that silence may have been a safer option in a tense environment, others urged him to finally break his silence and share his side of the story.
Background on Mohbad’s death
Mohbad, a former signee of Marlian Music, died under mysterious circumstances on September 12, 2023. His death sparked outrage across Nigeria, with fans and celebrities demanding a thorough investigation. Allegations of bullying, intimidation, and neglect surrounded the incident, with Sam Larry and others linked to Mohbad’s troubled career.
Despite widespread protests and online campaigns, authorities have yet to provide clear answers about the cause of his death. The delay in burying his body, even months after his demise, continues to fuel suspicion and anger among fans.
The pressure mounts
As the 48-hour deadline given by VeryDarkMan ticks down, all eyes are now on Zlatan Ibile. Will he speak out, or will he maintain his silence?
For many Nigerians, the fight for justice for Mohbad remains unfinished. And with voices like VeryDarkMan keeping the conversation alive, it may be impossible for the case to be buried, literally and figuratively, until answers are found.
Read Also: I paid N16million for Mohbad’s second autopsy, Singer’s father allergies
MOHBAD: Naira Marley testifies in court, Sam Larry summoned
I have been broken, not destroyed – Naira Marley breaks silence on Mohbad
