Court to hear N5bn suit against Sinach for ‘copyright infringement’

The Federal High Court in Lagos will today hear a N5 billion infringement suit filed against international gospel artiste, Osinachi Joseph Egbu, popularly known as Sinach, by music producer, Michael Oluwole, also known as Maye.  In suit number FHC/L/CS/402/2024, the plaintiff is seeking a declaration from the court that he is an author and co-owner […]

The Federal High Court in Lagos will today hear a N5 billion infringement suit filed against international gospel artiste, Osinachi Joseph Egbu, popularly known as Sinach, by music producer, Michael Oluwole, also known as Maye. 

In suit number FHC/L/CS/402/2024, the plaintiff is seeking a declaration from the court that he is an author and co-owner of the musical work ‘Way Maker’. 

He is also demanding general damages of N5 billion for alleged cumulative infringements of his rights.

Among other reliefs, the plaintiff is seeking an order mandating that in the absence of a written agreement between him and the defendant, all fees accruing from licences or assignments of copyright in ‘Way Maker’ should be divided equitably between them as co-owners.  

Through his counsel, Justin Ige of Creative Legal, the plaintiff averred that he worked as a studio engineer on ‘Way Maker’, recording, mixing, and mastering the song. 

He also asserted that he created and performed several instrumental accompaniments, including piano, strings, and synthesisers, without a transfer of his performer’s rights. 

The plaintiff alleged that the defendant released ‘Way Maker’ commercially in December 2015, incorporating his instrumental contributions without compensation or agreement. 

He further claimed that the defendant had been granting licences for the song without sharing the proceeds, describing her conduct as deliberate and oppressive. 

In response, the defendant, through her counsel, Emeka Etiaba (SAN) of Etiaba Chambers, denied the plaintiff’s claims, arguing that she achieved global recognition before ‘Way Maker’ and asserted sole authorship of the song, which she said was composed, arranged, and performed in collaboration with other artists, including Nwabude Chude Arinze, before the plaintiff’s involvement. 

The defendant said the plaintiff’s role was limited to mixing the master recording, a service for which he was paid. 

She denied any obligation to enter into a written agreement with him and insisted he is not entitled to performers, copyright, or publishing rights. 

‘Way Maker’ became the first Nigerian gospel song to surpass 100 million views on YouTube in March 2019. It has won multiple awards, including the GMA Dove Award for Song of the Year and has been translated into over 50 languages.