A Nigerian lawyer, Stan Alieke, has sparked debate over how Nigerian law determines a child’s paternity. The Abuja-based lawyer discussed the issue while citing the ongoing paternity controversy involving late singer Mohbad and his son, Liam.
Alieke argued that DNA testing does not automatically determine paternity under Nigerian law. However, he said courts may consider DNA alongside other forms of evidence.
His comments have renewed public interest in the legal dispute surrounding Liam’s paternity. 
Alieke addresses Mohbad and Liam’s paternity case
Alieke referred to the legal proceedings concerning whether Liam is Mohbad’s biological son. He apologised for using the sensitive case to explain his position. He claimed it is for context and clarity.
According to him, a court has ordered DNA testing to help determine Liam’s paternity. He said the outcome could have significant implications for the late singer’s estate.
If Liam is legally established as Mohbad’s son, he could have inheritance rights.
However, Alieke stressed that Nigerian law considers other factors when determining paternity. He said the law creates certain presumptions based on marriage and acknowledgement.
How Nigerian law presumes paternity
According to Alieke, a child born during a marriage is generally presumed to belong to the husband. He also referred to a 280-day period after the dissolution of a marriage. A child born within that period may still enjoy a legal presumption of paternity.
Alieke further discussed customary practices recognised by Nigerian courts.
He said Yoruba custom may recognise a man who accepts a pregnancy or acknowledges a child publicly. He added that giving the child his surname could also support that presumption.
According to him, similar principles apply under Hausa/Fulani customary practices.
However, he said Igbo customary practice takes a different approach. He explained that payment of the bride price can establish a presumption of paternity.
These customary rules can become relevant when courts determine family relationships.
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DNA remains part of the paternity debate
Alieke described DNA as foreign to Nigerian law and said courts treat it as supplementary evidence.
“DNA is not recognised in our laws as a way of proving the paternity of a child,” he stated.
He argued that marriage, public acknowledgement and customary practices can carry legal weight. Nevertheless, DNA testing can provide scientific evidence about biological relationships.
The interaction between scientific evidence, statutory law and customary practices remains complex.
Alieke stressed that his comments were educational and did not constitute legal advice.
“Consult your lawyers for further clarifications,” he advised.
Watch full video of Stan Alieke on paternity below:
His remarks have added another perspective to the public debate surrounding Liam and Mohbad. However, only the relevant court proceedings can ultimately determine the legal position in the specific case.
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