Nigerian gospel singer, Osinachi Egbu, popularly known as Sinach, is facing a lawsuit filed by music producer Oluwole Michael, professionally known as Maye. The suit alleges copyright infringement regarding her hit song, Way Maker, which was released in 2016.
In the lawsuit, Maye claims he is a co-author and co-owner of the song. He is seeking damages of N5bn for the alleged infringement of his rights and is requesting that the court recognise his share of the earnings from the track.
Maye asserts that he played a significant role in the production process, serving as a studio engineer responsible for mixing, recording, and mastering the song.
He contends that Sinach released the song without his consent, thereby violating his rights.
Sinach, who was represented by her lawyer, Emeka Etiaba, denied Maye’s claims, insisting that she was the primary owner of the song.
Her lawyer emphasised that Maye’s contribution was limited to mixing the recording, for which he was duly paid.
The case was heard in a High Court on Tuesday, with proceedings adjourned until January 29 and 30, 2025, to allow the defence to present its case.
Released in 2016, Way Maker quickly became a global anthem and solidified Sinach’s position as a prominent figure in gospel music.
The song made history by making her the first African artist to top the Billboard Christian charts and won the Song of the Year at the 2020 Gospel Music Association’s Dove Awards, among other accolades.
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