Story Highlights
On February 13, 2026, Nigerian singer Davido announced his withdrawal from the child custody battle against Sophia Momodu. The artist cited the defense lawyer’s decision to use the death of his late son, Ifeanyi, as a “low blow” during cross-examination, leading him to end the lawsuit.
Davido officially ended his legal pursuit for the joint custody of his daughter, Imade Adeleke. The singer announced the sudden decision on Friday, February 13, 2026, through his social media accounts.
This move follows months of public tension between the artist and his former partner, Sophia Momodu. Tensions reached a breaking point this week after the singer faced intense cross-examination during a closed-door court hearing. The singer had initially sought a legal arrangement to ensure regular visits.
”I never asked for full custody … I asked for joint custody” he wrote.
”Nobody won , nobody lost but Imade … so I don’t know why some pple r celebrating.. there’s nothing to celebrate.” the star added.
The Afrobeats icon explained that the defense lawyer used his late son, Ifeanyi, as leverage against him. He described the tactic as an unfair strategy that forced his hand to quit the case.
”I’ve decided to drop the case because when I was spanking that lawyer in the court room all .. she would get so frustrated .. because normally I finish school .. I was finishing her .. until she brought out her last card ! MY DECEASED SON ! THATS A NO NO ! Lowest blow!” Davido declared.
”My daughter will grow up knowing I fought for her .. let’s move on ❤️🙏🏾 One love !” he concluded.
The Breaking Point in Court
ValidUpdates understands that the legal team for Momodu raised questions about the singer’s past domestic environment. This strategy specifically referenced the tragic drowning of his three-year-old son in October 2022. The court session reportedly left the artist visibly shaken.
The singer previously fought to regain visitation rights after claims that the mother blocked his contact. This legal battle intensified after Momodu clarified her stance on daughter access in June 2024.
Public Reaction and Social Media Debate
The withdrawal has sparked a massive debate among fans and legal observers on social media. Many users defended the lawyer’s right to use relevant family history in a custody dispute. These comments highlighted the divide between legal ethics and emotional boundaries.
One user noted that no lawyer would ignore such a significant event when arguing for child safety. Others praised the singer for protecting his mental health by stepping away from the legal process.
Davido maintains that his primary goal was always the well-being of his first daughter. He believes she will eventually understand his efforts to be part of her life.
