The Nigerian entertainment scene was set ablaze this week as controversial social media activist, VeryDarkMan (VDM), released a bombshell voice recording allegedly featuring a private conversation between music promoter Sam Larry and street-pop star Zlatan Ibile. The audio, which has since gone viral, is reigniting public outrage and calls for justice in the unresolved death of singer Mohbad.
“I am going to be playing a voice recording between Zlatan and Sam Larry, during the time Mohbad died. I expect in 48 hours, Zlatan will come out to explain what he knows and why he did not speak out when we were seeking justice for Mohbad,” VDM declared in a viral post.
In the leaked conversation, Zlatan—speaking in Yoruba—expressed his reluctance to get involved in the controversies that followed Mohbad’s tragic passing.
He cited the potential backlash and drama that often accompany public statements on sensitive matters, stating bluntly that the matter “doesn’t concern him”. Zlatan also referenced a viral video showing Sam Larry approaching Mohbad during a music video shoot, hinting at the media’s role in shaping public perception.
VDM’s Ultimatum and Public Reaction
VDM issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Zlatan, demanding the singer break his silence and clarify his role—or lack thereof—in the events surrounding Mohbad’s demise.
This move has sharply divided Nigerian netizens. While some defend Zlatan’s right to remain silent, others insist he owes the public the truth about what really happened to Mohbad.
“You say you want justice for Mohbad and you are not happy I am bringing the case back up for more investigations? If you really want justice let Zlatan come out and tell Nigerians why he didn’t come out to say the truth of this day?”
VDM challenged, calling out both celebrities and fans for allegedly abandoning the pursuit of justice too soon.
Wider Implications for the Entertainment Industry
The release of this voice recording has once again put the spotlight on the unresolved questions surrounding Mohbad’s death.
Many Nigerians are now questioning the silence of other industry insiders who may have crucial information. The controversy has also sparked renewed debates about the culture of silence and loyalty within the entertainment industry, with some fans expressing disappointment in their idols for not speaking out.
Social media platforms have been flooded with reactions, as hashtags like **#JusticeForMohbadnd #SpeakUpZlatan trend nationwide.
Some fans argue that the industry’s “code of silence” is enabling injustice, while others warn against rushing to judgment without concrete evidence.
Quote of the Day
“In times of crisis, silence is not always golden; sometimes, it is a heavy burden that weighs on the path to justice.”
As the 48-hour deadline approaches, all eyes remain on Zlatan Ibile—will he break his silence, or will the controversy continue to fuel speculation and division across the nation? One thing is clear: the Nigerian public is demanding transparency, accountability, and above all, justice for Mohbad. The coming days will reveal whether the music star will finally address the swirling allegations, or if the mystery will deepen, leaving fans and observers with more questions than answers.
