Mohbad: ‘Spending Sodiq’ cries out over planned DPP prosecution

Mr. Ayobami Sodiq, known as “Spending Sodiq,” has raised concerns regarding a recent online publication indicating that the Department of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has decided to proceed with his prosecution over the death of Ilerioluwa Imoleayo, also known as “Mohbad.”

Sodiq, who raised the concern through his solicitors, Bonajo Badejo & Co., represented by Stephen Ehinmowo, stated that the decision to prosecute him while the coroner’s inquest is ongoing would amount to a travesty.

On September 26, 2023, the Lagos State government, through the office of the Chief Coroner, initiated a coroner’s inquest into the sudden death of Imoleayo (a.k.a. Mohbad), in line with sections 14 and 15 of the Coroner System Laws of Lagos State.

According to his lawyers, Mr. Ayobami attended the inquest, presented clear evidence, and was cross-examined extensively without any loss of credibility. His lawyers maintained that the evidence presented so far at the inquest is sufficient to exonerate him from any liability in the unfortunate demise of Mohbad.

His solicitors stated that the findings of the coroner’s inquest are crucial in determining the cause of death, which will aid in deciding any subsequent legal proceedings. They stressed that proceeding with prosecution based on incomplete facts and evidence is premature and unjustified. This, they argued, not only risks unfair charges but also undermines the integrity of the legal system.

“While the desire for swift justice is understandable, rushing to prosecute before the inquest concludes would undermine the fairness of the process. Premature prosecution could result in wrongful charges or conflicting conclusions, potentially damaging public trust in the justice system,” his solicitors said.

Mr. Sodiq stated that, to ensure fairness and prevent a miscarriage of justice, it is essential to allow the coroner’s inquest to be completed and its findings considered before the DPP initiates any criminal charges.

He added that it is only fair that the state government, which initiated the inquest, should allow the process to run its course to conclusion in a transparent manner, building trust in the legal system and ensuring that the investigation is fair, free from bias, and without any appearance of witch-hunting.

His solicitors urged the Director of Public Prosecutions to reconsider its decision to ignore the pending inquest and proceed with prosecution at this stage.