The tragic passing of Afrobeat rising star Mohbad has led to a widening rift between his family and close collaborator Bella Shmurda. In a recent interview with Lagos radio station Eko FM, Mohbad’s father, Alhaji Abdul Ganiu Isola, expressed deep disappointment in Bella Shmurda’s handling of the aftermath of his son’s untimely death.
A Heartbreaking Loss and a Family’s Grief
Mohbad, whose real name was Muhammed Ishaq Isola, passed away on April 17, 2024, at the young age of 25. The cause of death remains undisclosed, with the family requesting privacy during this difficult time. However, Alhaji Isola’s recent outburst sheds light on a potential source of tension within the music community.
In the emotional interview, Alhaji Isola stated, “I am highly disappointed in Bella Shmurda. Mohbad saw him as a brother, and this is how he repays that trust?” He went on to criticize Bella Shmurda’s lack of communication and perceived performative display of grief on social media.
Accusations of Insensitivity and Lack of Communication
Alhaji Isola lamented, “Since Mohbad passed, Bella Shmurda hasn’t even reached out to us, not a phone call, not a visit. The only thing we see is him posting pictures and videos on social media, pretending to be heartbroken. If he truly cared about Mohbad, he would have picked up the phone and spoken to his family.”
These accusations come on the heels of a series of cryptic social media posts by Bella Shmurda that some interpreted as insensitive. In the days following Mohbad’s passing, Bella Shmurda’s Instagram page was flooded with photos and videos of himself and Mohbad, often accompanied by lengthy captions expressing his grief. However, many fans found the timing and tone of the posts to be self-serving, given the apparent lack of contact with Mohbad’s family.
Bella Shmurda’s Silence and the Debate Among Fans
As of now, Bella Shmurda has not publicly responded to Alhaji Isola’s interview or the online criticism. Sources close to the musician claim he is privately grieving the loss of his friend and collaborator, struggling to cope with Mohbad’s sudden passing and taking time to process his emotions before reaching out to the family.
The situation has ignited a debate amongst fans and music industry insiders. Some side with Mohbad’s father, believing Bella Shmurda owes the family the courtesy of a personal condolence. Others defend Bella Shmurda, arguing that grief manifests differently for everyone, and his social media posts, however perceived, are a genuine expression of his sorrow.
A Shadow Over Promising Careers
This public feud casts a shadow over the promising careers of both artists. Mohbad, with his infectious energy and captivating lyrics, was poised for a breakout year. Bella Shmurda, already a household name in Nigeria, was expected to solidify his place as one of Afrobeats’ leading voices. The unresolved tension between their families threatens to overshadow their musical legacies.
The Road Ahead: Healing or Further Strain?
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining how this situation unfolds. If Bella Shmurda chooses to address Alhaji Isola’s concerns directly, it could pave the way for healing and potentially a collaborative tribute project honoring Mohbad’s memory. However, continued silence could further strain the relationship between the two families and leave a permanent mark on their artistic bond.
One thing remains clear: the music industry has lost a shining talent in Mohbad. His absence will be deeply felt by fans and fellow musicians alike. Whether Bella Shmurda can mend fences with Mohbad’s family and use his platform to celebrate Mohbad’s life and music will be a story to watch in the coming months.
