A Lagos-based law firm, Punuka Attorneys & Solicitors, has served a pre-action notice on music star David Adedeji Adeleke, professionally known as Davido, over alleged harassment, threats to life, cyberbullying, and defamation directed at one of its partners, Ebelechukwu Egeonu Enedah.
The notice, dated February 24, 2026, was addressed to Adeleke and signed by Decency Nkume (Associate) and Nnamdi Oragwu (Partner) on behalf of the firm. Punuka Attorneys & Solicitors stated that they act on the unequivocal instructions of Mrs. Ebelechukwu Egeonu Enedah and formally notify Adeleke of her intention to commence legal action against him.
The firm alleged that the dispute originated during proceedings in Suit No: LD/1587PMC/2024, David Adeleke v. Sophia Momodu, at the Lagos State High Court on February 12, 2026.
Punuka Attorneys & Solicitors claimed that Adeleke conducted himself in a manner unbecoming of a litigant by becoming aggressive and verbally abusive toward Mrs. Enedah, who appeared as counsel for the respondent, Sophia Momodu.
The firm stated that Adeleke’s conduct deteriorated to such a degree that physical restraint became necessary to prevent further disruption to the proceedings.
It added that the Honourable Court directed Adeleke to apologise to Mrs. Enedah in open court for his conduct, which directive he disobeyed.
Punuka Attorneys & Solicitors further alleged that the incident extended to social media, where Adeleke and accounts allegedly affiliated with him published posts that exposed Mrs. Enedah to public harassment and threats.
The firm attributed specific statements to Adeleke, including claims that he disgraced her in the courtroom, taught her her work which she could not take, described her as a wicked human being, and branded her as the worst lawyer ever while asserting victory in court.
The firm described the publications as deliberate and malicious acts of reputational destruction, stating that publicly branding a lawyer of her standing as the worst lawyer ever constitutes more than an expression of grievance.
Punuka Attorneys & Solicitors noted that the consequences were swift and severe, with Mrs. Enedah immediately subjected to a torrent of abusive text messages, threatening telephone calls, and explicit threats to her safety and the safety of her family.
The firm stressed that legal practitioners are entitled to carry out their professional duties without intimidation, harassment, or public ridicule, particularly in matters involving the custody and welfare of a minor.
In addition to demanding an immediate cessation of further commentary on the pending suit, Punuka Attorneys & Solicitors required Adeleke to issue a clear and unequivocal public statement withdrawing the defamatory statements and offering an unreserved apology to Mrs. Enedah.
Punuka Attorneys & Solicitors stated that their client demands compensation in the sum of one billion naira (₦1,000,000,000) as damages for the alleged harassment, defamation, and emotional distress.
The firm warned that should Adeleke fail, refuse, or neglect to comply with the demands within seven days of receipt of the letter, their client shall, without further recourse to him, commence an action at the High Court of Lagos to seek the reliefs outlined.
The matter stems from ongoing custody proceedings involving Davido and Sophia Momodu concerning their daughter, Imade.
Following the February 12, 2026 hearing, social media posts attributed to Davido criticised the opposing counsel, leading to widespread online reactions and discussions on professional conduct, freedom of expression, and commentary on sub judice matters.
Similar Past Cases Involving Celebrity Legal Disputes Over Defamation or Harassment in Nigeria
High-profile Nigerian celebrities have faced or initiated defamation, harassment, or cyberbullying claims in recent years, often linked to public statements, social media posts, or court-related incidents.
In 2023, actress Iyabo Ojo filed a defamation suit against her colleague Liz Anjorin over alleged libelous statements made online and in interviews.
The case involved accusations of spreading falsehoods that damaged Ojo’s reputation, leading to demands for retraction and damages.
In 2022, singer Portable (Habeeb Okikiola) faced multiple legal threats and suits from individuals and entities over alleged defamatory remarks and threats issued on social media.
One notable instance involved a petition by a lawyer demanding an apology and compensation for cyberbullying and incitement.In 2024, actress Mercy Aigbe instituted legal action against a blogger for defamation and cyberstalking after posts accused her of misconduct.
The suit sought damages and a public apology, highlighting the impact of online harassment on public figures.
In 2021, musician Naira Marley (Azeez Fashola) was involved in a defamation controversy stemming from social media disputes, leading to threats of legal action from affected parties over alleged false claims that exposed them to ridicule and threats.
In early 2025, actress Funke Akindele received a cease-and-desist letter from a colleague over alleged defamatory comments during a public feud, with demands for retraction and compensation to avoid court proceedings.
