Society Editor
By Tolu Adesuwa Igiehon
Nigerian music star Davido has announced that he is stepping away from the legal battle over joint custody of his first child, Imade, following a tense exchange during court proceedings involving his former partner, Sophia Momodu.
The singer and Momodu appeared in court on February 13 for a hearing regarding Davido’s suit seeking joint custody of their daughter. According to reports from the courtroom, the session was progressing without incident until a remark from Momodu’s lawyer shifted the atmosphere.
The Courtroom Exchange
During arguments, the lawyer allegedly questioned Davido’s ability to ensure Imade’s safety, referencing the tragic death of his son, Ifeanyi, in October 2022. The comment reportedly triggered an emotional reaction from the singer.
Witnesses claimed the situation briefly escalated, leading to a pause in proceedings. When the session resumed, the presiding judge reportedly asked Davido to apologise to both the court and the opposing counsel. However, the singer declined, maintaining that he could not apologise over remarks involving his late child.
“Nobody Won”
Later that evening, Davido addressed the development on his social media platform X, revealing that he had decided to discontinue the custody case.
In his statement, he said the situation had no winners, adding that the only person affected was his daughter. He emphasised that his decision to withdraw the case does not mean he has stopped caring, but rather that he hopes Imade will one day understand that he fought for her.
A Painful Chapter
The custody dispute had drawn significant public attention, given Davido’s celebrity status and the emotional weight attached to the case. His son Ifeanyi’s passing in 2022 was a deeply traumatic moment that resonated across Nigeria and beyond, making any public reference to the tragedy particularly sensitive.
While it remains unclear what the next steps will be regarding co-parenting arrangements, Davido’s decision appears aimed at lowering tensions and preventing further public confrontation.
For now, the legal battle has ended — but conversations surrounding celebrity parenting, courtroom decorum, and emotional boundaries are likely to continue.
