By Charles Igwe
A lawsuit demanding N2.3 billion in damages and a public apology has been initiated by the organizers of the annual ‘Warri Again Concert’ against Nigerian-American superstar singer David Adedeji Adeleke, popularly known as Davido. The lawsuit, filed before the High Court of Delta State in Effurun, names David Adeleke (Davido) and his music label, Davido Music Worldwide Limited, as defendants.
Brownhill Investments Company Limited, represented by its lawyer Kelechi Onwuegbuchulem, is the claimant in this case. They are seeking N2 billion in general damages from Davido and N150 million as legal and professional fees. Additionally, they are requesting N30 million as the cost of filing the lawsuit.
The claimant is also seeking a court order directing the defendants to issue a public apology via their social media accounts and in two national newspapers for four consecutive days. The lawsuit arises from an alleged breach of agreement/contract between the claimant and Davido.
The claimant alleged that in early 2023, Davido approached Mr. Amaju Pinnick, the Chairman of the claimant, and offered his services for the 19th edition of the ‘Warri Again’ event held on October 6, 2023. Despite prior disappointments in 2014 and 2019 when Davido failed to perform after being paid, the claimant agreed to engage Davido for the event.
A Performance Agreement dated March 30, 2023, stated that Davido’s performance fee was N70 million, which was required to be paid in full to secure his performance. The claimant paid $94,500 (equivalent to N70 million) on April 6, 2023, which was acknowledged by the defendants.
The claimant invested heavily in promoting the event, using Davido as the headline artist. They chartered a private jet for Davido’s team and incurred additional expenses. However, Davido failed to show up for the event.
The claimant is now demanding $94,500 as full payment for engaging Davido’s services and a public apology, while seeking an injunction restraining Davido from performing at any event in Nigeria until he refunds the sum of $94,500.
Amaju Pinnick explained his decision to file the lawsuit by stating that he serves in global organizations that are sensitive to his integrity, and he must take every step to protect and project that integrity. He also cited inquiries from family, friends, associates, and others following Davido’s social media outbursts.
