International gospel sensation Sinach, born Osinachi Joseph Egbu, is at the center of a legal battle with music producer Michael Oluwole, also known as Maye, who has filed a ₦5 billion lawsuit alleging copyright infringement related to the iconic song “Way Maker.”
The case, labeled suit number FHC/L/CS/402/2024, is scheduled for a hearing in the Federal High Court on November 27, 2024.
Lawsuit Details and Claims
The lawsuit claims that Maye is both the author and co-owner of “Way Maker.” He is seeking a court declaration of his rights and demands ₦5 billion in damages for what he describes as repeated infringements of his intellectual property.
Maye is also requesting an equitable share of earnings from licensing and copyright assignments related to the song, full disclosure of all related licensing agreements, and compensation for his contributions to the sound recording.
The suit alleges that Sinach failed to formalize agreements for his work on the track and violated his performer’s rights. Additionally, Maye seeks a perpetual injunction to prevent Sinach from further exploiting the song or its adaptations.
Maye claims he was heavily involved in the production of “Way Maker,” serving as the studio engineer who recorded, mixed, and mastered the song. He asserts that he created essential instrumental elements, including piano, strings, and synthesizers, without a formal transfer of his performer’s rights.
The lawsuit states that Sinach released the song in December 2015 without compensating him or formalizing an agreement about his contributions.
Sinach’s Defense
In her defense, Sinach, represented by lawyer Emeka Etiaba (SAN) of Etiaba Chambers, denies all allegations. She asserts that she was already internationally recognized before the release of “Way Maker” and claims sole authorship of the song.
Sinach argues that she composed, arranged, and performed the song, collaborating with other artists, including Maye, who she states was solely responsible for mixing the track. Sinach’s legal team argues that no written agreement was necessary for Maye’s involvement and that he is not entitled to any performer’s or publishing rights.
“Way Maker” has achieved extraordinary success globally, becoming one of the most recognized gospel songs of all time. The song, which surpassed 100 million views on YouTube in March 2019, has earned multiple accolades, including the GMA Dove Award for Song of the Year. Translated into over 50 languages, the track has been covered by renowned artists such as Michael W. Smith and Bethel Music.
Join our Channel...