In a sudden twist, lawyer Emeka Ugwuonye has withdrawn from representing May Edochie in her high-profile divorce from Nollywood actor Yul Edochie.
The move was announced by his firm, Due Process Advocates (DPA), citing harsh online behaviour by May’s fanbase, “May Nation,” as the breaking point.
Ugwuonye, in an official statement, said, “The persistent bullying and trolling originating from Queen May’s presumed supporters present a severe operational and ethical challenge for DPA and our staff.”
He explained that the hostility had escalated beyond acceptable limits, with his team facing more abuse from May’s fans than from supporters of Yul Edochie.
Originally, the collaboration aimed to support May in seeking justice following the breakdown of her marriage.
However, the lawyer clarified that the fan-driven toxicity had made it impossible to continue.
“Queen May’s inability to meaningfully influence this increasingly toxic faction among her supporters is incompatible with the level of investment required for our representation,” he added.
Despite stepping down, Ugwuonye reaffirmed May’s position as a victim in the situation.
He described her as “a remarkable individual” who had suffered betrayal and coercion into a forced polygamous relationship.
He also acknowledged the root cause of her troubles lay with Yul Edochie and his partner, Judy.
“She remained a victim of betrayal and forced polygamy,” he emphasized, making clear that his decision was not a reflection on May herself.
Moreover, DPA promised to assist May’s new legal team during the transition.
supporters, while meant to protect and cheer May on, instead created an environment of distress and disruption so much so that May Edochie’s legal representation had to withdraw.
This episode shows that even the best support can backfire when personal boundaries are crossed.
