Nigerian real estate firm Rod Apartment has terminated its ambassadorial contract with Nollywood actor and comedian Abimbola Kazeem, popularly known as Jigan Babaoja, amid a growing controversy linked to the unresolved death of singer Mohbad. The announcement, made on August 1, 2025, underscores the increasing fallout from a case that has captivated Nigeria’s entertainment industry and public discourse.

The decision follows allegations by social media activist Verydarkman (VDM) that Jigan was part of a WhatsApp group accused of manipulating narratives around Mohbad’s death in September 2023. Mohbad, born Ilerioluwa Aloba, died under mysterious circumstances at age 27, sparking nationwide demands for justice. VDM’s claims, which also implicated celebrities like Iyabo Ojo and Tonto Dikeh, suggested the group aimed to suppress truth in the case.

Rod Apartment, a Lagos-based luxury property developer, cited the need to protect its brand reputation in a brief Instagram statement: “We have ended our ambassadorial agreement with Mr. Abimbola Kazeem (Jigan Babaoja) after careful review. We wish him well in his future endeavors.” 

Jigan, a prominent figure in Yoruba cinema and a TikTok star known for comedic content, had promoted Rod Apartment’s projects to his sizable online following. On July 30, during a TikTok live session, he denied the allegations, stating he joined the WhatsApp group out of genuine concern for Mohbad, whom he met briefly during a video shoot weeks before the singer’s death. “My conscience is clear,” Jigan said, addressing VDM directly. “I wanted justice, not drama.”

The Mohbad case has evolved from a unified call for accountability into a complex web of accusations, dividing public opinion. Supporters of Jigan argue he is a victim of unproven claims. Critics, however, see Rod Apartment’s move as a prudent response to potential reputational risk, with another user noting, “Brands can’t afford to be linked with controversy.”

Jigan has not publicly addressed the termination, but his supporters remain vocal, expressing hope for his recovery from the professional setback.