It is now a battle from Church to court as the Federal High Court is set to hear a N5 billion copyright infringement lawsuit filed against renowned gospel artiste Osinachi Joseph Egbu, popularly known as Sinach, on Wednesday, November 27, 2024.
The suit, brought by music producer Michael Oluwole, also known as Maye, centers around the acclaimed song Way Maker.
Filed under suit number FHC/L/CS/402/2024, Maye claims he is a co-author and co-owner of Way Maker and seeks recognition for his contributions, alongside N5 billion in general damages for alleged infringement of his rights. Key demands in the lawsuit include an order that all fees from licenses or copyright assignments for Way Maker be equitably divided in the absence of a written agreement between Maye and Sinach. The plaintiff is also requesting that Sinach disclose all licenses and assignments related to Way Maker, provide an account of accrued fees, and remit Maye's due share. Additionally, the suit seeks a perpetual injunction barring Sinach from further reproduction, distribution, or public performance of Way Maker without appropriate acknowledgment or agreement. Maye also requests recognition that Sinach failed to secure agreements with him for his contributions, thereby infringing upon his statutory performer’s rights.
Maye, represented by Justin Ige of Creative Legal, asserts that he served as a studio engineer for Way Maker, handling recording, mixing, and mastering, while also creating and performing instrumental elements such as piano, strings, and synthesizers. He claims that these contributions were used without his consent or compensation when Sinach released the song commercially in December 2015.
According to the plaintiff, Sinach has since issued licenses for Way Maker and benefited from its success without sharing proceeds. He alleges that her actions were deliberate, exploitative, and violated his performer’s rights.
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