Lawyer fires back at Davido over social media harassment after custody case

Custody Dispute Between Afrobeats Star Davido and His Ex-Wife Escalates

In the latest development of an ongoing custody dispute, Afrobeats artist David Adeleke, known professionally as Davido, announced on Friday his decision to withdraw from the case concerning custody of his daughter, Imade. The decision has sparked significant public discourse and prompted a formal response from the law firm representing Imade’s mother, Sophia.

Davido clarified that he never sought sole custody of his daughter, instead requesting joint custody. He emphasized that the situation represents a loss for Imade and questioned the reasoning behind public celebrations regarding his withdrawal. “I never asked for full custody … nobody won, nobody lost but Imade … so I don’t know why some people are celebrating. There’s nothing to celebrate,” he stated on X.

The singer cited distressing moments during the court proceedings as a significant factor in his decision to withdraw. He expressed his discontent over references made to his deceased son during the hearings. “I’ve decided to drop the case because until she brought out her last card! MY DECEASED SON! THAT’S A NO NO! Lowest blow!” he wrote.

He further remarked that his choice reflects love and responsibility toward his daughter and that he hopes his efforts will be understood in time. “My daughter will grow up knowing I fought for her … let’s move on. One love!” he added.

On social media, Davido criticized the opposing legal team for what he labeled as unprofessional conduct in court. “I disgraced you in the courtroom … I was teaching you your work … and then went on to mention my son. Like I said in the courtroom, I pray you never go through what my wife and I have gone through,” he posted.

The social media commentary follows initial remarks from Maruf Muhammed, a Lagos-based lawyer, who highlighted tense moments during the court sessions at the Lagos State High Court in Yaba, referring to the proceedings as dramatic.

In response to the public commentary and perceived harassment faced by its counsel, Sophia’s law firm released a firm statement defending its actions. Dated February 16, 2026, the statement addressed what it described as inflammatory public statements related to the custody case.

“We emphasize that this matter is sub judice. It will be decided by the court alone, based on evidence and law, and no amount of media commentary will influence that process,” the law firm stated. They expressed commitment to the highest standards of professional conduct while warning against threats and intimidation directed toward legal practitioners.

The firm underscored the importance of fearlessness in advocacy, insisting that intimidation of lawyers compromises the justice system. “If legal practitioners are threatened or harassed for performing their duties, the foundation of justice is endangered,” the statement asserted.

The law firm called on the Nigerian Bar Association and the global legal community to condemn what it termed a violation of legal standards.

As the custody dispute continues to unfold, the public remains engaged, with various observers advocating for a peaceful co-parenting approach while both parties hold firm to their positions amidst growing scrutiny.

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