The Force Criminal Investigation Department of the Nigeria Police Force (FCID) has recently revealed that it invited the well-known socialite, Samson Balogun, widely recognized as Sam Larry, along with others. This move came following the June 27 petition filed by the late singer, Mohbad, concerning an alleged assault.
FCID disclosed that Sam Larry's legal team responded with a counter-petition, accusing the late singer of defamation of character. This development occurred after Mohbad declined to come forward and defend his initial petition.
The backdrop for this situation was an incident in June, when Mohbad claimed he was assaulted by Sam Larry and others while on set, prompting him to file the petition.
Oluniyi Ogundeyi, the spokesperson for the Lagos Annex of the FCID, spoke to a correspondent from Punch, stating that Mohbad failed to attend and provide evidence to assist the police in their investigation of the suspects.
Ogundeyi stated, "We received the petition, and followed up on the information provided in the petition, and the suspects were invited. But Mohbad refused to show up to defend his petition and also provide evidence to assist the police in carrying out a proper investigation and forward the matter to the legal department for prosecution, if necessary."
He further confirmed the date of Mohbad's report, June 27, 2023, and explained that Sam Larry and the other suspects mentioned in the petition cooperated by attending police questioning and providing statements. In contrast, Mohbad chose not to participate and defend his petition. Sam Larry's legal representative then lodged a counter-petition, alleging defamation by Mohbad.
Despite the police's attempts to reach Mohbad on multiple occasions, he did not appear, leaving the authorities unable to proceed when a petitioner declined to engage and provide evidence for investigation, potentially leading to legal action against the suspects if found guilty."