Sinach

Gospel Star Sinach Faces ₦5 Billion Lawsuit Over Hit Song ‘Way Maker’

Award-winning gospel artist Osinachi Joseph Egbu, popularly known as Sinach, is at the centre of a ₦5 billion lawsuit filed by music producer Michael Oluwole, also known as Mayolee. The case, heard at the Federal High Court in Lagos on November 27, 2024, centres on a dispute over the copyright and profits from Sinach’s globally celebrated song Way Maker.

Released in December 2015, Way Maker has gained international acclaim, but Mayolee claims he played a pivotal role in its production. According to the producer, he was responsible for recording, mixing, and mastering the track, as well as creating key instrumental elements such as the piano, strings, and synthesizers. Despite his contributions, Mayolee alleges he has not been properly compensated and that Sinach has withheld all earnings from the song.

The producer is seeking ₦5 billion in damages, a share of the song’s revenue, and formal recognition of his contributions. He has also requested a court injunction to prevent the unauthorised use of the track.

This legal action follows earlier threats made by Mayolee in 2022 during a live video session with social commentator Daddy Freeze. At the time, he accused Sinach of disregarding his contributions and failing to acknowledge his rights.

Sinach, however, maintains that she is the sole creator of Way Maker. Represented by lawyer Emeka Etiaba (SAN), her team asserts that she wrote, arranged, and performed the song before Mayolee became involved. According to them, Mayolee was hired only to mix and master the track and was paid $300 for his services, which they argue excludes him from any claims to royalties or copyrights.

In contrast, Mayolee’s lawyer, Justin Ige, has highlighted the absence of a formal contract between the parties. This, he argues, opens the door for Mayolee’s claims under Nigerian copyright law, which may favour contributors in cases where no agreements were documented.

The case has ignited broader discussions about intellectual property rights, fair compensation for creative contributions, and the importance of contracts in the Nigerian music industry. As the legal battle unfolds, its outcome could set a precedent for resolving disputes in the country’s burgeoning music sector.

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