The federal high court in Lagos has adjourned music producer Michael Oluwole’s “copyright infringement” suit against gospel singer Sinach until January 2025.
Maye, whose real name is Oluwole, sued Sinach for N5 billion for her 2016 hit song “Way Maker.”
Maye requests a declaration from the court that he is an author and co-owner of the musical composition in suit number FHC/L/CS/402/2024.
In addition, he seeks N5 billion in general damages for alleged cumulative rights violations.
In addition to other remedies, the plaintiff is seeking an order that, in the absence of a formal agreement, divides equally all fees from copyright licenses or assignments in “Way Maker” between the defendant and the plaintiff 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 claimed to have been a studio engineer on “Way Maker,” recording, mixing, and mastering the song through his attorney, Justin Ige.
Additionally, he asserted that he did not surrender his performer’s rights while creating and performing a number of instrumental accompaniments, such as piano, strings, and synthesisers.
According to Oluwole, Sinach published the song without getting his permission or paying him. Additionally, he described her acts as “oppressive” and asserted that she had secured music rights without sharing the profits.
In response, Sinach, through her counsel Emeka Etiaba of Etiaba Chambers, denied the producer’s claims.
The singer maintained that she had achieved global recognition before ‘Way Maker’ and claimed sole authorship of the song. She said the song was composed, arranged, and performed with other artistes such as Nwabude Chude Arinze, before Oluwole’s involvement.
Sinach argued that the Oluwole’s role was limited to mixing the master recording, a “service for which he was paid $300”.
She denied any obligation to establish a written agreement with him and maintained that he is not entitled to performer’s rights, copyright, or publishing royalties.
The trial, which began on November 27, 2024, was adjourned until January 29 and 30, 2025. This was after the court had taken arguments from the prosecution. The adjournment is to enable the defense to present its case.
