In a series of posts on his verified X handle, Ovation magazine publisher Dele Momodu has expressed surprise over Afrobeat singer Davido’s recent court filing seeking joint custody of his daughter with Sophia Momodu. Momodu shared that his previous discussions with Davido focused on the singer’s upcoming wedding and reconnecting with his daughter, not custody issues.
Momodu revealed that despite Davido’s claims, he and his family had always had access to the child. He recounted that when Davido stopped paying school fees, his father, Deji Adeleke, promptly settled the dues and even provided a car for the child.
“Last night, I received a distressing message from David Adeleke (aka Davido). He was obviously devastated by the counter-affidavit submitted in court earlier in the day in response to his affidavit seeking joint custody of their daughter,” Momodu wrote.
He expressed confusion over Davido’s court action, given their recent video call where the focus was on Davido’s wedding and his renewed connection with his daughter. Momodu had also expressed gratitude to Davido’s father for his support during Davido’s absence.
Momodu noted that financial support issues, such as school fees, accommodation, and nanny salaries, were at the core of the disputes between Davido and Sophia. He mentioned that Sophia had suggested splitting the accommodation costs, which Davido declined, offering only N5 million annually.
“Sophia allowed David access to their daughter, provided she had her nanny around. The 9-year-old herself made this request, and I believe this should be favorably considered and accepted,” Momodu stated.
He highlighted that Sophia did not initiate the custody battle and that the lack of communication and friendship between Davido and Sophia led to the current situation. Momodu urged both parties to prioritize their daughter’s well-being and compromise on custody and financial responsibilities, cautioning against harmful social media rhetoric.
“The court referred the case for possible settlement by the alternative dispute resolution (ADR) section during Settlement Week,” Momodu wrote. “I strongly advise that David and Sophia engage with the process and avoid making harmful and irreversible statements on social media, which not only violate the law but also the interest of their child.”
Momodu emphasized the importance of structured, safe, and sustainable engagement between father and child and called for an amicable resolution to avoid further trauma for all parties involved, especially the child.
