Nigerian Superstar Accused of Stealing Song After Failed Settlement Agreement
International Afrobeats star Davido has been given 21 days to respond to a federal lawsuit in New York after four Nigerian artists accused him of stealing their 2022 track “Work” to create his 2024 hit “Strawberry on Ice.”
According to court documents obtained by Peoples Gazette, the plaintiffs—Martins Chukwuka Emmanuel, Abel Great Umaru, Kelvin Ayodele Campbell, and David Ovhioghena Umaru—claim they shared a demo of “Work” with Davido in early 2022 for a potential collaboration that never materialized. Instead, they allege the Grammy-nominated artist passed their work to featured artist Emmerson, who allegedly used elements of their song without permission.
The case took an unexpected turn when both parties reached a settlement in March 2025, with Davido agreeing to pay $45,000 and share royalties. However, the plaintiffs say the “Fall” singer failed to meet payment deadlines, prompting them to file suit in Manhattan federal court on April 4.
“Davido had our trust when we shared our work with him,” said one plaintiff who spoke anonymously. “We’re not big names, just artists trying to get our break. When he used our song without credit or payment, it felt like a betrayal.”
The lawsuit seeks $150,000 in damages, copyright ownership stakes in “Strawberry on Ice,” and a court order preventing further alleged infringement. Also named in the suit are co-writers, producers, and Wynn Records, the song’s distributor.
Legal experts note the case highlights growing intellectual property disputes in Africa’s booming music industry, where informal collaborations sometimes lead to conflicts. “This could set an important precedent for how sampling cases are handled between African artists in international courts,” said entertainment lawyer Adeola Adebayo.
Davido’s representatives have yet to comment publicly on the allegations. The 31-year-old star, currently on his “Timeless Tour,” now faces a tight deadline to respond to the court or risk default judgment.
For the plaintiffs—who say they’ve waited three years for resolution—the lawsuit represents more than money. “This is about respect,” said another group member. “Whether you’re a superstar or an upcoming artist, nobody’s work should be taken without credit.”
The case continues to unfold as the global music industry watches how U.S. courts handle this cross-continental copyright dispute.
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