The custody dispute between Afrobeats star David Adeleke, widely known as Davido, and Sophia Momodu has taken another dramatic turn, following the singer’s decision to withdraw from the case and a strongly worded response from the law firm representing his daughter’s mother.

Late Friday, Davido, announced via X that he had discontinued the custody proceedings. He clarified that he never sought sole custody of his daughter, Imade, but rather joint custody.

“I never asked for full custody … I asked for joint custody. Nobody won, nobody lost but Imade … so I don’t know why some pple r celebrating. There’s nothing to celebrate,” he wrote.

Explaining his withdrawal, the singer alleged that the court proceedings crossed a personal line when his late son was referenced.

“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 stated.

Davido maintained that his actions were motivated by love and responsibility toward his daughter.

“My daughter will grow up knowing I fought for her … let’s move on. One love!” he added.

The music star also criticised the opposing legal team on his Instagram story, accusing them of unprofessional conduct during proceedings at the Lagos State High Court in Yaba.

“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 me and my wife have gone through ever,” he posted.

Earlier, Lagos-based lawyer Maruf Muhammed had drawn attention to tense courtroom moments, writing:

“Davido in High Court, Yaba now! Come and see drama in court. The lawyer made 001 lose his patience during cross-examination o! Be you never so high, the law is above you.”

He later clarified that the matter involved the custody of Davido’s daughter.

In response to what it described as harassment and inflammatory commentary directed at its partner, the law firm representing Sophia issued a statement dated February 16, 2026, defending its conduct and warning against intimidation of legal practitioners.

“That matter is sub judice. It will be decided by the court alone, on evidence and law, and no amount of media commentary will sway that process or our approach to the case,” the firm stated.

While declining to address the substance of the case, the firm emphasised the importance of professional integrity and fearless advocacy.

“However, if legal practitioners are to be threatened, intimidated, or exposed to harassment outside the courtroom for asking questions, testing evidence, or discharging their professional duty to their clients, then the very foundation of justice is imperilled,” the statement read.

The firm further declared: “It will not begin with us,” adding that it would take all lawful steps necessary to resist any attempt to undermine judicial proceedings.

The statement, jointly signed by the Management and Board of Partners, also called on the Nigerian Bar Association and the global legal community to condemn what it described as a threat to the legal profession.

As the matter continues to draw public attention, many observers are urging both parties to prioritise peaceful co-parenting, even as the legal and social media battles intensify.