The Federal High Court in Lagos has postponed a copyright infringement case against gospel artist Sinach, filed by music producer Michael Oluwole, until January 2025.
Michael Oluwole, also known as Maye, has initiated legal action seeking N5 billion in damages from Sinach. He claims co-authorship of the popular 2016 song ‘Way Maker’ and seeks recognition as a co-owner. The case, identified as FHC/L/CS/402/2024, argues for general damages and equitable sharing of all fees from the song’s licenses or assignments.
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Oluwole is calling for the court to determine an equitable division of the song’s proceeds and to compel Sinach to reveal all related licenses and copyright assignments. He demands an accounting of all accrued fees and his fair share. Furthermore, he alleges Sinach neglected her obligation to formalize his contributions to the recording and infringed on his performer’s rights. He also seeks a permanent injunction to prevent further reproduction or public performance of ‘Way Maker’ without his consent.
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Represented by Justin Ige, Oluwole asserts that he played a significant role in the creation of ‘Way Maker,’ including engineering, mixing, and mastering the track. He also claims to have performed several instrumental parts and that his contributions were used without proper acknowledgment or compensation.
Sinach, through her lawyer Emeka Etiaba, refutes these claims. She asserts that she had already established her reputation before the release of ‘Way Maker’ and claims sole authorship of the song. According to Sinach, Oluwole’s involvement was limited to mixing the final recording for which he was compensated with $300. She denies owing him any performer’s rights or royalties.
Video of Sinach Song ‘Way Maker
The trial, which began on November 27, 2024, has been adjourned to January 29 and 30, 2025, to allow the defense to present their arguments.
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Sinach, whose real name is Osinachi Kalu, has achieved significant milestones in her career, including being the first Nigerian to top the Billboard Christian Songwriter chart for 12 consecutive weeks. Her song ‘Way Maker’ earned multiple nominations and won ‘Song of the Year’ at the 51st GMA Dove Awards.
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