Sophia Momodu Opposes Custody Grant to Davido, Alleges Neglect and Absence
Sophia Momodu, the mother of David Adeleke’s daughter, has strongly opposed granting custody of their child to the musician. In a recent session at the Lagos State High Court in Sabo, Yaba, Momodu argued that Davido lacks the necessary presence and responsibility required for their daughter’s upbringing.
Momodu’s stance, outlined in a counter-affidavit filed against Davido’s custody petition, challenges his claims of fulfilling financial obligations. She revealed that their daughter faced potential expulsion from school due to Davido’s alleged neglect in paying tuition fees. Momodu asserted that Davido only engaged with their daughter sporadically, often using visits for media attention rather than genuine parental care.
According to Momodu, Davido’s visits were conditional upon her compliance with his personal desires, linking his involvement with their daughter to inappropriate demands. She further claimed instances where Davido abruptly ceased financial support and communication when his advances were rebuffed, portraying him as an inconsistent figure in their daughter’s life.
Momodu detailed an incident where she and their daughter were reportedly evicted from Davido’s residence during a holiday, compelling them to seek shelter with acquaintances. Despite these challenges, Momodu emphasized that she never hindered Davido’s access to their daughter, highlighting his voluntary withdrawal from paternal responsibilities.
Regarding financial support, Momodu contested Davido’s assertions of regular payments, citing instances of unpaid school fees that almost led to their daughter’s exclusion from school. She disclosed that Davido’s father intervened to settle outstanding fees, refuting claims of substantial parental contribution from Davido.
Addressing housing and general welfare, Momodu clarified that she independently supported herself and their daughter, refuting claims of housing provision by Davido. She affirmed her commitment to providing a nurturing environment despite the challenges posed by Davido’s alleged neglect.
During the court proceedings, Momodu’s legal representation, led by Chief (Dr) Anthony Idigbe (SAN) of Punuka Attorneys & Solicitors, highlighted procedural concerns, including the publication of their daughter’s name in a national newspaper. This prompted the judge to restrict courtroom access, emphasizing legal safeguards under the Child’s Right Law of Lagos State 2015, which protects minors’ identities in legal matters.
Momodu expressed concerns about their daughter’s safety following the public exposure of the custody dispute, necessitating additional security measures at her school. The court subsequently referred the case for potential resolution through alternative dispute mechanisms, aiming to mitigate the public impact on their daughter.
In summary, Sophia Momodu’s opposition to granting custody to Davido underscores her claims of his absenteeism and inconsistent paternal involvement. The legal proceedings, marked by procedural safeguards and parental responsibilities, continue to unfold amidst public and legal scrutiny.
