In a significant win for filmmaker Chinenye Nworah and GCM Giant Creative Media Limited, the Nigerian Trademark Tribunal has ruled in their favor over Nollywood star Ini Edo, affirming ownership of the trademarks “Shanty Town” and “Scar”.
This decision brings clarity to the heated legal battle surrounding the popular Netflix series “Shanty Town,” which left the future of its much anticipated second season uncertain.
Background on the Dispute
Ini Edo, along with Minini Empire Productions Limited (MEP), filed a petition against Nworah in January 2024, seeking to claim rights over the series. However, the Tribunal’s ruling, issued on July 18, 2024, dismissed these claims as baseless. This victory was further solidified by the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), which confirmed Nworah’s copyright ownership over the series on July 24, 2024.
Intellectual Property in the Entertainment Industry
Intellectual property (IP) rights are overlooked in the entertainment industry and they play a crucial role in the entertainment industry, as they protect the creative works of artists, ensuring they receive fair compensation and recognition. IP encompasses trademarks, copyrights, and patents. it allows creators to monetize their ideas while safeguarding them from unauthorized use.
The Nigeria Copyright Commission and World Intellectual Property Organization has highlighted the importance of securing IP rights as a creative artist. It is necessary for filmmakers and artists to protect their creative outputs to avoid disputes and ensure they benefit from their work.
About “Shanty Town”
Directed by Dimeji Ajibola, “Shanty Town” is a six-part crime thriller that follows a group of women forced into sex work by powerful men. Released on January 20, 2023, the series became a hit with its star-studded cast, including Chidi Mokeme, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Nse Ikpe Etim, and Sola Sobowale.
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