Law Firm Punuka Issues Strong Response to Davido's Custody Case Comments
The legal firm representing Sophia Momodu in her ongoing custody battle with music superstar Davido has issued a formal response to the singer's recent social media outburst. Punuka Attorneys and Solicitors, retained by Momodu for the case concerning their daughter Imade Adeleke, has condemned what they describe as intimidation tactics against their legal counsel.
Davido's Controversial Social Media Posts
David Adeleke, professionally known as Davido, took to social media platforms to express his frustration regarding the custody proceedings. In his posts, the Afrobeats star specifically called out the lawyer handling Imade's case, questioning why she would reference his late son's passing during legal proceedings. Davido also tagged what was believed to be the personal social media account of the lawyer's son, a move that has drawn significant criticism from legal observers and fans alike.
The singer's emotional online statements have ignited a firestorm of reactions, with many questioning the appropriateness of discussing sensitive legal matters on public platforms while a case remains before the courts.
Punuka's Formal Statement and Legal Position
In a formal letter that has circulated widely online, Punuka law firm addressed the situation directly. The legal practice strongly condemned what they characterized as the alleged intimidation of their staff member, Ebelechukwu Egeonu Enedah, who is representing Sophia Momodu in the custody proceedings.
The firm's statement emphasized that "the matter would only be determined in court" and not through social media platforms or public pressure campaigns. Punuka further committed to utilizing all available legal measures to resist any form of intimidation against their counsel, asserting their duty to represent their client's interests without external interference.
Call for Nigerian Bar Association Intervention
In a significant development, Punuka's statement included a direct appeal to the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA). The law firm called upon the professional body to "rise and speak against harassment of legal practitioners" in the country. This request highlights growing concerns within Nigeria's legal community about maintaining professional boundaries and protecting lawyers from undue pressure during high-profile cases.
The firm's position underscores the principle that legal proceedings should follow established judicial processes rather than being influenced by public sentiment or celebrity status.
Public Reactions and Fan Responses
The unfolding drama has generated substantial online discussion, with fans and observers taking sides in the contentious custody battle. Many supporters of Sophia Momodu have welcomed Punuka's firm stance, criticizing Davido for what they perceive as inappropriate public commentary on an ongoing legal matter.
Social media comments reveal divided opinions:
- One user noted: "Custody battles are ruthless. Sorry for his loss, but it's crazy to expect your opponent's lawyer to prioritize your feelings over their own duty."
- Another commented: "Honestly this is nice, that outburst online was so uncalled for and also calling out a supposed son."
- A third observer remarked: "The law is not based on emotions and the music star should not have allowed his fans to allegedly intimidate Sophia Momodu's lawyer online."
Broader Context of the Custody Dispute
The custody battle between Davido and Sophia Momodu over their daughter Imade has been ongoing for some time, with both parties seeking joint custody arrangements. The case has attracted significant media attention due to the celebrity status of those involved and the emotional complexities surrounding parental rights and responsibilities.
This latest development comes amid reports that Larissa London, another of Davido's former partners and mother to one of his children, has also commented on the custody proceedings. London reportedly shared her perspective on the situation via social media, though she is not directly involved in the Momodu-Davido legal dispute.
The case continues to highlight the challenges of navigating family law matters in the public eye, particularly when involving high-profile individuals with substantial social media followings.
