Omowunmi, the wife of the late Nigerian singer Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, delivered an emotional and deeply touching speech at the 17th Headies Awards ceremony, which took place on Sunday, April 27, at the Landmark Event Centre in Lagos. Her words moved the audience to tears as she accepted two major awards on behalf of her late husband, highlighting the everlasting impact of his music and legacy.
Mohbad posthumously won two major awards: Best Street Music (Street-hop Artiste) of the Year and the Viewer’s Choice award for his collaboration with Chike on the song “Egwu.” These awards were a testament to Mohbad’s influence and contribution to the music industry, even though he was no longer present to celebrate this monumental recognition with his fans, friends, and family.
In an emotional moment, Omowunmi stepped onto the stage to accept the accolades on behalf of her late husband. She began her heartfelt speech by refusing to refer to Mohbad as her “late husband,” a term she said she could not use because, to her, he continues to live on, especially through their young son, Liam. The sincerity in her voice conveyed the deep love and admiration she still holds for Mohbad, emphasizing that his legacy would live forever, not only in the hearts of his fans but also through their child.
“On behalf of myself, my son Liam, my husband’s immediate younger brother Adura, and the rest of the Imonelization family, we want to specially thank you for this award,” she said as she fought back tears. “Although Mohbad isn’t here with us anymore, he lives on. I don’t like to address him as my late husband cause he lives forever, especially through our son Liam. Although he may be too young to grasp the depth of his father’s greatness, I know, and I believe that one day, he will know. Thank you so much Headies. Thank you for shining a light on my husband. Thank you for honouring his memory and legacy. It means so much to me, his son, and the entire Imonelization family.”
Omowunmi’s tribute served as a reminder of the enduring impact that Mohbad’s music has had on the Nigerian music industry and beyond. Her words were a touching reflection of the unbreakable bond she shares with her late husband and their son, Liam, who she believes will one day come to fully appreciate the greatness of his father. In this moment of grief and pride, Omowunmi highlighted the love, respect, and honor that Mohbad will continue to receive from both his family and the larger music community.
Her speech also underlined the depth of the affection that still surrounds Mohbad’s memory and how his legacy continues to inspire. As Omowunmi held her son, Liam, while accepting the awards, it was clear that Mohbad’s influence would live on in them both. For Omowunmi, this moment at the Headies was not only a recognition of Mohbad’s musical achievements but also a reaffirmation of his everlasting place in the hearts of those who loved him.
The emotional moment has since sparked widespread discussion online, with fans, friends, and admirers sharing their own tributes to the late artist and supporting his family. Many have praised Omowunmi for her strength and for carrying on Mohbad’s legacy in such a meaningful way. The tribute to Mohbad at the 2025 Headies will undoubtedly remain one of the most memorable and emotional moments in the history of the awards ceremony.
Watch the video below …
Mohbad’s Wife and his son, Liam receives his award for Best Street Artist..
Emotional moment🤍🤍 #headies2025 pic.twitter.com/g23ZCyqISQ
— 𝔸b𝕒𝕫𝕫 (@abazwhyllzz) April 28, 2025