The US National Medical Service Laboratories (NMS) in Pennsylvania have denied conducting toxicity tests on the late Nigerian singer, Mohbad, contrary to the claims made by the Lagos State government. The denial from NMS comes in response to a pathologist’s statement on May 15, stating that the cause of Mohbad’s death could not be determined through an autopsy on his decomposed corpse.
LEADERSHIP had previously reported that African Television and the African Foundation for Justice offered a reward of N50 million for any information about the killers of the 27-year-old singer, whose death under mysterious circumstances sparked nationwide controversy and protests.
Esther Dede, the Client Services Associate of the Forensic Divisions at NMS, disclosed that the toxicity test for Mohbad was not conducted at their facility. She stated, “Unfortunately, we do not have a case for that patient.” However, she noted that authorization from the submitting agency would be required to disclose further information, in compliance with privacy regulations.
When contacted for a response, the Lagos State Commissioner for Information, Gbenga Omotoso, maintained that NMS Lab was the facility where Mohbad’s autopsy was conducted, as submitted by the Lagos State DNA and Forensic Centre. He mentioned that the centre has affiliations with three other labs, but the specific lab used for Mohbad’s autopsy was NMS Lab.
Mohbad’s lawyer, Wahab Shittu, assured that the outcome of the autopsy would not be the final verdict. He highlighted the pathologist’s mention of the body’s decomposition as a reason for the undetermined cause of death, emphasizing the need to consider all possibilities and ask further questions.
The controversy surrounding Mohbad’s death continues, with conflicting statements from different parties involved. As investigations unfold, it is important to maintain an open mind and await further information to determine the true cause of the singer’s untimely demise.
