Popular gospel musician Sinach is facing a N5 billion lawsuit filed by music producer Michael Oluwole, professionally known as Maye, over alleged copyright infringement involving her 2016 global hit song, Way Maker.
In suit number FHC/L/CS/402/2024, Maye claims he worked as a studio engineer on ‘Way Maker,’ released in December 2015.
The Guardian reports that the producer, through his counsel, Justin Ige of Creative Legal, claimed that his contributions included recording, mixing, mastering the song and creating instrumental accompaniments such as piano, strings, and synthesisers.
Maye argues that Sinach released the song commercially without formalising an agreement or compensating him, thus violating his performer’s rights.
In the suit, Maye describes Sinach’s alleged failure to share proceeds from the song’s licensing as “deliberate and oppressive.” He demands general damages of N5 billion for alleged cumulative infringements of his rights.
Spinach however denies these allegations, maintaining that she is the sole author of Way Maker. The award-winning musician said the song was composed, arranged, and performed in collaboration with other artists, including Nwabude Chude Arinze, before Maye’s involvement.
The defence contends that Maye’s role was limited to mixing the master recording, a service for which he was paid ₦150,000 (approximately $300).
The singer’s legal team argues that this payment absolves her of any obligation to grant him copyright or performer’s rights.
Sinach’s legal team strongly opposed the plaintiff’s assertions, questioning the legitimacy of his claims to co-authorship and ownership.
The trial has been adjourned to 29 and 30 January 2025 to allow the defence to present its case.
By Ezinne Okorie.
