N5bn Lawsuit: Music Producer Accuses Sinach of Copyright Infringement

Sinach Faces N5bn Lawsuit for Alleged 'Way Maker' Copyright Infringement

“Issue a perpetual injunction restraining the defendant from further reproduction, distribution, or public...”

Gospel singer Sinach is facing a N5bn lawsuit for alleged copyright infringement of her hit song 'Way Maker'. Get the latest updates on the case.

The Federal High Court in Lagos has adjourned the copyright infringement case against gospel singer Sinach, whose real name is Osinachi Kalu Okoro Egbu, until January 2025. The case was filed by music producer Michael Oluwole, also known as Maye.

Maye initiated the lawsuit, FHC/L/CS/402/2024, seeking a declaration that he is the co-author and co-owner of Sinach's 2016 hit song “Way Maker.” Additionally, Maye is demanding N5 billion in general damages for the alleged cumulative infringements of his rights.

The plaintiff is seeking an order that, in the absence of a written agreement, all revenue generated from licensing or assigning the copyright of “Way Maker” be divided fairly between the plaintiff and defendant as co-owners of the song.

“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.

“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.”

Sinach has denied Oluwole's claims, asserting that she is the sole author of “Way Maker.” She emphasized that she had already gained global recognition as a singer before the song's release. Sinach also stated that she composed, arranged, and performed “Way Maker” in collaboration with other artists, including Nwabude Chude Arinze.

According to Sinach, Oluwole's role in the production of “Way Maker” was limited to mixing the master recording, for which he was paid $300. She argued that this payment constituted full compensation for his services. Sinach denied any obligation to establish a written agreement with Oluwole and maintained that he is not entitled to performer's rights, copyrights, or publishing royalties.

The trial, which commenced on November 27, 2024, has been adjourned to January 29 and 30, 2025. This decision was made after the court heard arguments from the prosecution, and it will allow the defense to present its case.

The song at the center of the dispute, “Way Maker,” has achieved significant international recognition. In 2020, it received three nominations and won “Song of the Year” at the 51st GMA Dove Awards in the United States. This milestone made Sinach the first Nigerian artist to receive the prestigious award.