The Federal High Court in Lagos has postponed the hearing of the copyright infringement lawsuit filed by music producer Michael Oluwole against gospel singer Sinach to January 2025.
Oluwole, commonly known as Maye, sued Sinach for N5 billion for her 2016 hit song ‘Way Maker’.
In suit number FHC/L/CS/402/2024, Maye seeks a judicial declaration that he is the author and co-owner of the musical composition.
He also seek N5 billion in general damages for alleged cumulative infringements on his rights.
The plaintiff is requesting, among other things, an order directing that, in the absence of a written agreement with the defendant, all fees generated from licenses or assignments of copyright in ‘Way Maker’ be equally divided as co-owners.
“The plaintiff also requests the court to: Determine an equitable division of fees as either an equal share or another division the court deems appropriate,” the lawsuit reads.
“Compel the defendant to disclose all licenses and copyright assignments related to ‘Way Maker’, account for all accrued fees, and pay the plaintiff his due share.
“Declare that the defendant failed in her statutory obligation to conclude written agreements with the plaintiff for his contributions to the sound recording; Affirm that the plaintiff’s performer’s rights were infringed upon.
“Issue a perpetual injunction restraining the defendant from further reproduction, distribution, or public performance of ‘Way Maker’ or any adaptations thereof.”
Oluwole stated, through his legal counsel, Justin Ige, that he worked as a studio engineer on ‘Way Maker’, recording, mixing, and mastering the song.
He also alleged that he created and performed various instrumental accompaniments, such as piano, strings, and synthesizers, without transferring his performer’s rights.
Oluwole accused Sinach of releasing the song without his permission or compensation. He further alleged that she secured licenses for the song without sharing the profits, labeling her actions as “oppressive.”
Sinach responded by denying the producer’s claims through her counsel, Emeka Etiaba of Etiaba Chambers.
The singer asserted that she had gained global recognition prior to Way Maker and claimed exclusive authorship of the song. She stated that the song was composed, arranged, and performed with other artists, including Nwabude Chude Arinze, before Oluwole became involved.
Sinach contended that Oluwole’s involvement was limited to mixing the master recording, a “service for which he was paid $300.”
She rejected any obligation to formalize a written agreement with him and insisted that he is not entitled to performer’s rights, copyright, or publishing royalties.
The trial, which began on November 27, 2024, was postponed to January 29 and 30, 2025.
This came after the court had heard arguments from the prosecution.
The adjournment aims to allow the defense to present its case.
Osinachi Kalu, known as Sinach, is the first singer to lead the Billboard Christian Songwriter chart for 12 consecutive weeks.
“Way Maker” garnered three nominations and won ‘Song of the Year’ at the 51st GMA Dove Awards, making Sinach the first Nigerian to receive the award.
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