The Federal High Court in Lagos has delayed the hearing of a copyright infringement lawsuit filed by music producer Michael Oluwole against gospel singer Sinach to January 2025. Oluwole, also known as Maye, is suing Sinach for N5 billion over her 2016 hit song “Way Maker.”
In his lawsuit (FHC/L/CS/402/2024), Maye seeks a declaration that he is the author and co-owner of the musical composition. He also demands N5 billion in damages for alleged ongoing infringements of his rights. Additionally, Maye is asking the court to order that any revenue from licensing or copyright assignments related to “Way Maker” be split equally between him and Sinach, as co-owners.
Maye’s legal team is also requesting an order for Sinach to disclose all licenses and copyright assignments related to the song, account for all profits, and pay him his fair share. They argue that Sinach failed to finalize a written agreement with him for his contributions and that his performer’s rights were infringed. Maye is also seeking a permanent injunction to prevent Sinach from reproducing, distributing, or publicly performing the song or any adaptations of it.
Oluwole, through his lawyer Justin Ige, claims that he worked as a studio engineer for “Way Maker,” handling tasks like recording, mixing, and mastering the song. He also alleges that he created and performed instrumental accompaniments, such as piano, strings, and synthesizers, without transferring his performer’s rights to Sinach.
In response, Sinach’s lawyer, Emeka Etiaba, denied the allegations, asserting that she had already achieved international recognition before “Way Maker” and was the sole author of the song. She claims that the song was composed, arranged, and performed with other artists, including Nwabude Chude Arinze, before Oluwole’s involvement, which she says was limited to mixing the master recording for which he was paid $300. Sinach also rejected any obligation to formalize a written agreement with Oluwole and argued that he is not entitled to performer’s rights, copyright, or publishing royalties.
The trial, which began on November 27, 2024, was postponed to January 29 and 30, 2025, to allow the defense to present its case.
Sinach, known for being the first artist to lead the Billboard Christian Songwriter chart for 12 consecutive weeks, achieved significant recognition for “Way Maker,” which earned three nominations and won ‘Song of the Year’ at the 51st GMA Dove Awards, making her the first Nigerian to win the award.
