|By Queen Banigo
Afrobeats superstar Davido has withdrawn from the ongoing custody battle over his daughter, Imade, declaring that he never sought sole custody and condemning what he described as an “unacceptable” courtroom episode.
The singer, whose real name is David Adeleke, announced late Friday on X that he decided to discontinue the case following heated exchanges during proceedings at the Lagos State High Court.
Clarifying widespread speculation, Davido insisted his legal request was strictly for joint custody—not full custody—of his daughter.
“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.
The “Unavailable” crooner said he stepped back from the legal fight after what he described as a “lowest blow” during cross-examination, alleging that references were made to his late son in open court.
“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 posted.
Davido stressed that his decision was driven by love and responsibility toward his daughter, adding that his efforts to secure her future would eventually be understood.
“My daughter will grow up knowing I fought for her … let’s move on. One love!” he added.
The Grammy-nominated artiste also took to Instagram to criticise the opposing legal team, accusing them of unprofessional conduct and alleging that tensions escalated during cross-examination.
“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 wrote.
The controversy erupted after Lagos-based lawyer Maruf Muhammed posted updates from inside the courtroom, describing dramatic scenes at the Yaba division of the High Court.
“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,” Muhammed wrote.
When questioned online about the matter before the court, it was clarified that the proceedings centred on the custody of Davido’s daughter, Imade.
Despite the legal turbulence, Imade was recently seen spending quality time with her father after winning a talent competition—an outing that delighted fans and underscored both parents’ visible involvement in her life.
The custody dispute between Davido and his daughter’s mother has remained in the public eye, drawing reactions from fans who continue to call for peaceful co-parenting and a resolution that prioritises the child’s welfare.
