By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA – The Federal High Court in Lagos will today, November 27, 2024, hear a N5 billion copyright infringement lawsuit filed against international gospel artist Osinachi Joseph Egbu, popularly known as Sinach, by music producer Michael Oluwole, also known as Maye.

The case, which centers on the globally acclaimed song Way Maker, could set a significant precedent for intellectual property disputes in Nigeria’s music industry.

The plaintiff, Michael Oluwole, a music producer and studio engineer, is seeking a declaration of co-ownership of the song and general damages of N5 billion for alleged infringements of his rights. Filed as suit number FHC/L/CS/402/2024, the claims include accusations that Sinach commercialized Way Maker, released in December 2015, without compensating him or concluding a written agreement over his contributions.

Among other reliefs, the plaintiff is asking the court to mandate an equitable division of all revenues from licenses and copyright assignments of the song. He also seeks disclosure of all past agreements and income related to Way Maker, a perpetual injunction against further unauthorized reproduction or performance of the song, and recognition of his performer’s rights, which he claims were infringed upon.

Maye asserts that his contributions included recording, mixing, and mastering the song, as well as creating and performing instrumental accompaniments such as piano, strings, and synthesizers. He alleges that despite his role in shaping the track, Sinach has granted licenses for the song and retained all proceeds without sharing them, a move he describes as deliberate and oppressive.

Sinach, represented by her counsel Emeka Etiaba (SAN) of Etiaba Chambers, denies the claims. She maintains that she is the sole author of Way Maker, having composed, arranged, and performed it before Maye’s involvement. Her legal team argues that the plaintiff’s role was limited to mixing the master recording, for which he was paid, and asserts that he has no rights to the song’s copyright or publishing income.

Released in December 2015, Way Maker became an international phenomenon, earning multiple awards, including the GMA Dove Award for Song of the Year, and surpassing 100 million views on YouTube in March 2019. The song has been covered by over 60 artists globally, translated into more than 50 languages, and was among the most played songs in U.S. churches in 2020. It also served as an anthem during the George Floyd protests in Minneapolis that same year.

The outcome of this high-profile case will have far-reaching implications for rights management and compensation in Nigeria’s creative industry, particularly for collaborative works that achieve global success.