Oriyomi Hamzat Lifts 2-Year Ban on Marlian Records, Publicly Apologizes to Naira Marley
Oriyomi Hamzat apologizes to Naira Marley as Agidigbo FM lifts the two-year ban on Marlian Records music, citing truth and fairness.
Popular radio broadcaster, Oriyomi Hamzat, has officially lifted the two-year ban placed on songs from Marlian Records, extending a heartfelt apology to Nigerian singer Naira Marley. The ban, which began in September 2024, followed the sudden and controversial passing of former Marlian Records signee, Mohbad, whose death triggered outrage and fueled suspicions across the entertainment industry and the public.
Background of the Ban
At the peak of the controversy surrounding Mohbad’s death, Hamzat was one of the most vocal critics of Naira Marley. Convinced by the heated rumors and allegations linking Marley to the tragedy, his radio station, Agidigbo FM, removed all Marlian Records music from its playlists. At the time, Hamzat stated that the station would not promote Naira Marley’s works until justice had been served.
However, subsequent investigations and official reports cleared Naira Marley of direct involvement in Mohbad’s passing. This new information prompted Hamzat to review his earlier stance and make a public apology, acknowledging that his decision had been influenced by emotions and misinformation rather than verified facts.
Hamzat’s Apology to Naira Marley
In a live broadcast, Hamzat admitted that the singer had been unfairly judged in the court of public opinion. He expressed regret for contributing to the negative narrative that damaged Naira Marley’s reputation and confirmed that Marlian Records’ songs would now be reinstated on Agidigbo FM’s playlist.
“I want to tender my sincere apology to Naira Marley. At the peak of the Mohbad tragedy, I made a decision that was influenced by emotions and public outrage. But now that the truth has surfaced, it is only right for me to retrace my steps. We are lifting the ban, and Marlian Records songs will once again be played on Agidigbo FM,” he said.
Mixed Reactions Online
The announcement has sparked widespread reactions on social media. While some Nigerians praised Hamzat for having the courage to admit his mistake and apologize publicly, others criticized the reversal. They argued that the damage done to Naira Marley’s image could not simply be undone by an apology, and questioned whether the broadcaster’s change of heart was driven by genuine conviction or mounting public pressure.