The simmering custody dispute between music star Davido and Sophia Momodu has taken a dramatic legal turn, as her counsel, Ebelechukwu Enedah, demands N1 billion in damages over alleged defamation, harassment, cyberbullying and threats to life.
In a formal letter dated February 24 and issued through her legal representatives, Enedah accused the artiste, born David Adeleke, of engaging in conduct calculated to injure her professional reputation and incite online hostility against her person.
The letter asserts that Enedah, a partner at PUNUKA Attorneys & Solicitors with over two decades of post-call experience, has suffered reputational harm, emotional distress and security concerns allegedly arising from public comments attributed to the singer. It described the alleged branding of her as “the worst lawyer ever” as a deliberate and malicious attack rather than a mere expression of grievance.
According to the correspondence, the cumulative effect of the alleged publications has extended beyond professional criticism to what was characterised as reputational destruction, particularly given the lawyer’s role in representing her client in a contentious custody proceeding.
The dispute reportedly intensified following a heated court session in February over the custody of the parties’ daughter, Imade. Shortly after the proceedings, Davido publicly announced via social media that he was withdrawing his custody application. He had also accused the lawyer of referencing his late son during arguments in court — an allegation that formed part of the broader online exchanges.
Enedah’s letter emphasised that proceedings concerning the custody and welfare of a minor are inherently sensitive and ought not to be subjected to public commentary or social media sensationalism while pending before a court of competent jurisdiction. She demanded that the singer immediately cease and desist from making any further public statements, directly or indirectly, concerning her person or the subsisting litigation, citing the doctrine of sub judice.
In addition to the N1 billion damages claim, the lawyer called for a public apology and retraction to be issued across the singer’s verified social media platforms and published in at least two widely circulated national newspapers. She further demanded that Davido instruct his followers and associates to refrain from any form of harassment, intimidation or threats.
The letter warned that failure to comply within seven days would precipitate legal action before the appropriate division of the Lagos State High Court to enforce the claims and seek judicial redress.
The development marks a significant escalation in what was initially a private custody contest, now evolving into a potential high-stakes defamation and harassment suit with substantial financial and reputational implications.
