The magistrate’s court in Ikorodu has ordered that DNA tests be conducted to establish the paternity of Liam Aloba, the son of the late Nigerian singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad. 

The order was given on Tuesday by Magistrate Adefisoye Sonuga after hearing an application filed by Joseph Aloba, the father of the late singer. The application sought to determine the biological father of Liam.

Omowunmi Cynthia Aloba, the late singer’s wife, was named as the respondent in the case. The application was filed in accordance with the Family Court of Lagos State (Civil Procedure) Rules, 2012, and the Magistrate Courts (Civil Procedure) Rules, 2009.

The court’s order requires that the DNA tests be conducted at accredited medical facilities, both within Nigeria and abroad. 

The court also directed that the chief medical officer or chief pathologist at the Military Hospital in Yaba, Lagos, where the late singer’s remains are stored, should collect tissue, hair, or any suitable sample from the deceased for the DNA testing.

The court also approved conducting another DNA test outside Nigeria, with the costs to be borne by the applicant.

Mohbad’s father, Joseph Aloba, submitted documents at the hearing indicating ongoing uncertainty about Liam’s paternity. He emphasized that resolving this issue is vital due to its sensitive nature and for determining the child’s welfare and maintenance obligations.

At the proceedings, Mr Aloba was represented by Augustine Adegbemi of Wahab Shittu & Co., while Kabir Akingbolu appeared for the late singer’s wife. As there was no opposition from the respondent’s counsel, the magistrate granted the application.

The court mandated two DNA tests, one in Nigeria and another abroad, with both parties or their representatives required to be present when samples are taken. 

Further court proceedings were adjourned until November 11.