The organizers of the annual ‘Warri Again Concert’ have filed a lawsuit demanding N2.3 billion in damages from Nigerian-American superstar singer, David Adedeji Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, and his music label, Davido Music Worldwide Limited. The lawsuit was filed before the High Court of Delta State in Effurun by Brownhill Investments Company Limited, who are the claimants in this case. The lawsuit is registered under suit number EHC/183/2023.
Damages and Apology Requested:
Brownhill Investments Company Limited, represented by counsel Kelechi Onwuegbuchulem, is seeking several forms of compensation. They are asking for N2 billion in general damages against Davido, N150 million as legal and professional fees, and an additional N30 million to cover the cost of filing the lawsuit. Furthermore, the claimant is demanding that Davido and his music label issue a public apology on all of Davido’s social media accounts and in two national daily newspapers for four consecutive days.
Background of the Lawsuit:
According to the statement of claim submitted by the claimant, the alleged breach of contract stems from an agreement between the parties for Davido to perform as the headline artist at the 19th edition of the ‘Warri Again’ event, scheduled for October 6, 2023, in Warri, Delta State.
The claimant asserts that they had reservations about engaging Davido’s services due to his failure to perform at the 2014 and 2019 editions of the same event after being paid. Despite their concerns, they entered into a performance agreement with the defendants, which specified a performance fee of N70 million. A payment of US$94,500 (equivalent to N70 million) was made on April 6, 2023, and acknowledged by the defendants. Davido even created a promotional video confirming his attendance and performance at the event.
The claimant alleges that, just a week before the event, they reminded Davido about the concert and incurred an additional expense of $18,000 to charter a private jet for his transportation to and from the event. However, on the day of the event, Davido failed to show up, leaving the claimant with no choice but to apologize to the attendees for his absence and arrange for another artist to perform.
Social Media Dispute:
Following the event, Davido reportedly used his social media influence to post insults, defamatory remarks, threats, and other unprintable comments directed at Mr. Amaju Pinnick, the chairman of the claimant. He also claimed that he had informed the claimant of his inability to attend the event in advance, which the claimant vehemently denies.
Demand for Resolution:
In addition to the financial damages and public apology, the claimant is requesting $94,500 as full payment for engaging Davido’s services. They are also seeking an injunction to prevent Davido from performing as a musical artist at any show or event in Nigeria until he refunds the sum of $94,500.
The legal battle between Brownhill Investments Company Limited and Davido will undoubtedly attract significant attention and scrutiny as it unfolds in the High Court of Delta State.
