Nigerian music star Davido Adeleke has filed a lawsuit against his first baby mama, Sophia Momodu, seeking full custody of their nine-year-old daughter, Imade Aurora Adeleke.
According to legal documents submitted by Davido’s legal team, which includes notable attorneys Dr. Olaniyi Arije and Okey Barrah, at the Lagos State High Court on April 17, 2024, the artist cited multiple reasons for his decision.
Davido accused Sophia Momodu of exploiting their daughter for financial gain, claiming she continuously made unreasonable demands and rejected reasonable accommodation offers. He asserted that he has fulfilled his responsibilities to Imade, including paying for her education, housing, and other necessities.
Davido noted that despite providing a secure residence and vehicles for Imade’s transportation needs, Momodu insisted on additional financial support, such as demanding ₦5,000,000 annually for rent instead of accepting the provided apartment.
“I have been responsible for all school fees to ensure my daughter receives the best education possible,” Davido stated. “I have also been providing money for the rent of the apartment where the respondent resides with our daughter.”
He added, “The respondent rejected the offer to stay in the secured Oniru apartment, which had already been purchased, and demanded I continue to pay ₦5,000,000 annually for a rented facility.”
Davido further claimed he had bought a Range Rover Sport Utility Vehicle for Momodu and their daughter’s use, but Momodu complained about its condition without informing him. In response, he provided another vehicle, a Highlander SUV, and ₦5.8 million for the Range Rover’s repair.
Despite his efforts, Davido alleged that Momodu continued to make excessive demands, including $800 per month for a nanny and $19,600 annually as a lump sum. He expressed concern over Momodu’s behavior, which he said caused him significant emotional distress.
“That notwithstanding my efforts in the overall interest of my daughter, the respondent has continued to make outlandish and utopian demands to frustrate me,” Davido added.