Rapper Omoniyi Raphael, better known as Zlatan Ibile, has opened up about his close relationship with the late Mohbad and singer Bella Shmurda.
During an interview on Beat 95.9 FM, Zlatan reflected on his friendship with the two artistes, particularly his bond with Mohbad.
A clip from the interview, which surfaced online, showed the rapper wearing a black cap and a striped sweater as he spoke into the microphone.
Zlatan explained that his connection with Mohbad stemmed from their shared roots. “Mohbad is from Ikorodu, that’s where I am from,” he said, adding that although his family hails from Ekiti, he grew up in the Lagos suburb, where he also formed a strong bond with Bella Shmurda.
He further revealed that their friendship began through music. “We used to record from the same studio back then in the hood. From there, we became friends. Then I met Bella through Pocolee. The connection is just there,” he said.
Fans flooded social media with reactions, reminiscing about Mohbad’s legacy and appreciating Zlatan’s recognition of their friendship.
Before his death on September 12, 2023, Mohbad faced harassment from individuals linked to his former record label.
In one widely circulated video, Zlatan was seen stepping in to protect him when Sam Larry, an associate of Naira Marley, confronted him during a video shoot.
Following Mohbad’s death, Zlatan joined calls for justice and paid tribute to him during the candlelight procession and concert held in his honor.
