๐ฆ๐ถ๐ป๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ต ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ฒ๐ ๐ก๐ฑ ๐๐ถ๐น๐น๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ๐๐ผ๐ฝ๐๐ฟ๐ถ๐ด๐ต๐ ๐๐ฎ๐๐๐๐ถ๐ ๐ข๐๐ฒ๐ฟ โ๐ช๐ฎ๐ ๐ ๐ฎ๐ธ๐ฒ๐ฟโ
The Federal High Court in Lagos has adjourned a copyright infringement case filed against gospel artist Sinach by music producer Michael Oluwole, popularly known as Maye. The suit, which seeks N5 billion in damages, will resume in January 2025.
Oluwole alleges that he is a co-author and co-owner of Sinachโs globally celebrated 2016 song, Way Maker. Filed under suit number FHC/L/CS/402/2024, the case asks the court to affirm his claims of authorship and to grant an equitable division of all revenues generated from the song.
In his suit, Oluwole requests that the court compel Sinach to disclose licensing agreements and copyright assignments related to Way Maker. He also seeks compensation for his alleged contributions to the track, which include studio engineering, mixing, mastering, and creating instrumental accompaniments such as piano, strings, and synthesizers. Oluwole claims these efforts were performed without a formal transfer of his performerโs rights and accuses Sinach of releasing the song without his consent or due compensation.
Describing her actions as โoppressive,โ Oluwole argues that Sinach failed to establish a written agreement regarding his contributions and has unfairly profited from the song. His demands include a perpetual injunction to prevent further reproduction, distribution, or public performance of Way Maker without his involvement.
Sinach, whose legal counsel is Emeka Etiaba of Etiaba Chambers, denies these allegations. She asserts sole authorship of Way Maker, maintaining that the song was composed and arranged before Oluwoleโs involvement. According to Sinach, Oluwoleโs role was limited to mixing the master recordingโa service for which he was paid $300. She denies owing any additional fees or obligations and argues that Oluwole is not entitled to performerโs rights or royalties from the song.
The trial, which began on November 27, 2024, has been adjourned to January 29 and 30, 2025, to allow the defense to present its case.
Born Osinachi Kalu, Sinach is renowned for her contributions to gospel music. She is the first Nigerian artist to top the Billboard Christian Songwriter chart for 12 consecutive weeks. Way Maker earned her international recognition, winning โSong of the Yearโ at the 51st GMA Dove Awards and making her the first Nigerian to receive the honor.
Source: Anambra current news
