₦1 Billion Allegation Rocks Marlian Camp as Samklef Accuses Naira Marley, Sam Larry of Paying VDM for “Damage Control” Amid Mohbad Death Saga

Music producer and social media agitator Samklef has reignited tensions surrounding the controversial death of Nigerian artist Mohbad, with explosive allegations suggesting a ₦1 billion hush-money deal between embattled music boss Naira Marley, his close ally Sam Larry, and controversial activist VeryDarkMan (VDM).

In a post laced with sarcasm and veiled threats, Samklef insinuated that the sum — allegedly aimed at “cleaning up” the public image of the Marlian camp — was paid to VDM, who has recently shifted from being a vocal critic of the Marlian crew to taking what many now interpret as a surprisingly sympathetic stance. The cryptic post has once again thrown the spotlight on Mohbad’s mysterious death in September 2023, a tragedy that sparked nationwide protests, candlelight vigils, and a wave of online outrage that still lingers across social media platforms.

Samklef’s accusations, though unverified, gain potency from the public’s simmering anger and an existing timeline of disturbing events. In October 2023, as confirmed by PunchNG, Sam Larry was arrested at Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed International Airport upon arriving from Kenya, following multiple video clips that showed him harassing the late Mohbad. His arrest followed weeks of pressure on the Nigeria Police Force to investigate the alleged abuse and threats Mohbad endured before his death — many of which were captured in haunting livestreams and voice notes left behind by the singer.

Though the police later described Mohbad's death as “suspicious” and initiated an autopsy — whose results have yet to satisfy public demand for transparency — the perception of a coordinated cover-up has refused to fade. Samklef’s latest post only stirs the flames, especially with its implication that money may have been used to steer the online narrative away from the Marlian camp’s accountability.

“You collect ₦1 billion and think the truth can be buried? God pass you,” Samklef allegedly wrote, tagging VDM directly in a post that has since gone viral.

While no peer-reviewed or legal evidence supports the claims at this stage, the scandal underscores the influence of digital platforms in shaping justice and public opinion in Nigeria. A 2021 study in the Journal of Communication revealed that 68% of viral claims on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) lack corroborative evidence, but their emotional intensity can still shape national discourse and even prompt government response.

Critics have long warned about VDM’s shifting alliances, accusing him of leveraging activism for personal gain, while supporters argue he’s merely presenting “the other side” in a polarized debate. However, the timing of this alleged “media softening” around Naira Marley and Sam Larry — especially as investigations into Mohbad’s death have gone largely silent — has raised eyebrows even among former allies.

Meanwhile, Mohbad’s family remains in mourning, and his fans continue to cry for justice. The late artist, born Ilerioluwa Aloba, had publicly cut ties with Marlian Music months before his death, citing intimidation, unpaid royalties, and mental distress. His final songs, including “Peace” and “Beast & Peace,” are now being dissected by fans for possible hidden messages.

Samklef’s bombshell may never be proven in court, but in Nigeria’s digital arena, truth and perception often fight for the same space. And with a ₦1 billion accusation on the table, the stakes — and suspicions — are higher than ever.