In a major development in the Nigerian entertainment industry, a high court in Delta has overruled the preliminary objections raised by popular music artist Davido in a breach of contract lawsuit amounting to N2.3 billion. The lawsuit was filed by Amaju Pinnick who alleged that Davido failed to honor a contract to perform at the 19th edition of the ‘Warri Again’ concert in Delta.
Objections Overruled
Davido and his company, Davido Music Worldwide Limited, had challenged the court’s jurisdiction to hear and decide the breach of contract suit filed by Brownhill Investment Company Limited over the annual ‘Warri Again Concert’. However, the court dismissed the objections, affirming that the High Court of Delta State does have the territorial jurisdiction to hear and determine the cases.
In addition, the court also dismissed another objection by Davido Music Worldwide and Israel Afeare, challenging the jurisdiction of the court to hear a defamation case filed against them. The court stated that the cases revolved around defamation and breach of contract, and hence, it has the jurisdiction to hear them.
Claimant’s Demands
The claimant, Brownhill Investments Company Limited, has requested the court to award N2 billion as general damages against Davido. They are also seeking N150 million as fees, and N30 million as costs.
Davido’s Defense
On his part, Davido challenged the court’s jurisdiction on the grounds that the case was a debt recovery matter. He claimed that Sosoberokon, who is also involved in the lawsuit, is not his agent and does not negotiate performance contracts on his behalf. In the defamation case, Davido contested the court’s jurisdiction on the ground that the defamatory statements were published online but the claimant did not show that the defamatory statements were downloaded and viewed in Delta State to give the court jurisdiction.
The court has now adjourned the hearing to consider other pending applications. The decision in this high-profile case will likely hinge on the evidence presented by both parties, including the terms of the contract and any defenses that Davido may put forth to justify his non-appearance at the event.