Late singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, had his legacy celebrated on one of the industry’s biggest nights as he was honoured with multiple awards at the 17th edition of The Headies Awards held on Sunday.
Mohbad secured several major awards, 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 nearly two years after his tragic death in September 2023—a loss that deeply shook the Nigerian music industry and sparked nationwide outrage.
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.
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‘Mohbad Lives On’
In her heartfelt speech, Omowunmi said, “On behalf of myself, our son Liam, my husband’s immediate brother Adura, and the rest of the Imolenization family, we want to specially thank you for this award.
“Although Mohbad is not here with us anymore, he lives on. I don’t like to address him as my late husband because he lives forever, especially through our son Liam.
“He may be so young to fully grasp the depth of his father’s greatness, but I know and I believe that one day he will know.
“He will know how his father’s voice is manifesting into people’s lives, he will know how his songs bring so much joy, happiness, and courage to people. He will know his father mattered and still matters.
“Thank you so much for Headies, thank you for shining the light on my husband, thank you for honouring his memory, thank you for honouring his legacy. It means so much to me, our son Liam, and to the entire Imolenization. Thank you so much once again.”
The ceremony also featured a heartfelt tribute to Mohbad, with a montage and a short performance by street-hop artists, celebrating his profound impact and the void his passing has left in the industry.
The 17th edition of The Headies Awards, widely regarded as Nigeria’s most prestigious music awards, was themed “Back to Base” and “Apologetically African,” marking a vibrant return to the country after two years abroad.
The event was hosted by Nollywood actress and media personality Nancy Isime, who brought charisma, humour, and infectious energy to the stage.
The Headies stage came alive with a series of unforgettable performances—from Fireboy DML’s soulful acoustic set to a surprise joint performance by Olamide and Shallipopi, every act brought their A-game.
Chike, who collaborated with Mohbad on the award-winning track “Egwu”, emerged as one of the night’s biggest winners, bagging two awards: the Viewers’ Choice Award and Best Music Video.
Rema won Afrobeats Album of the Year for his project HEIS, Davido secured Digital Artist of the Year, while Tems took home Best Recording of the Year for her soulful track “Burning”.
This 17th edition of the Headies also debuted two new categories — “Soundtrack of the Year” and “Best Performer (Live)” — broadening the range of honours for artistic contributions to the industry.
