The Federal High Court in Lagos has dismissed a copyright suit filed by Michael Oluwole against gospel singer Osinachi Joseph Egbu, popularly known as Sinach, over the ownership of her globally acclaimed song, “Way Maker.”
In the suit marked FHC/L/CS/402/2024, Oluwole asked the court to declare him a co-author and co-owner of the song. He also sought a share of all revenues generated from licences and assignments relating to the work, alleged infringement of his performer’s rights and demanded ₦5 billion in general damages, among other reliefs.
Delivering judgment on Friday, July 24, Justice A. Lewis-Allagoa ruled that the plaintiff failed to establish his claim of authorship or co-ownership of the musical work.
The court held that “Way Maker” had already been created and performed by Sinach, including during an earlier performance in South Africa, before Oluwole was engaged to mix and master the existing song for its commercial album release in 2015.
According to the court, the plaintiff was contracted under an oral agreement and received payment for providing technical production services.
Justice Lewis-Allagoa explained that under copyright law, authorship belongs to the individual who creates the original expressive elements of a musical work, including its melody, lyrics, harmony or arrangement.
The court further stated that a producer, sound engineer or session contributor does not automatically become an author by offering technical or instrumental support unless they contribute original creative expression to the work.
The judge noted that the plaintiff’s own testimony and admissions during cross-examination confirmed that Sinach brought an already existing song, which he subsequently mixed and mastered for an agreed fee.
Describing the case as “gold-digging and unmeritorious,” Justice Lewis-Allagoa dismissed the suit in its entirety.
The defendant was represented by Emeka Etiaba, SAN, alongside Omolola Aderolu and O.G. Ofomata, while Matthew Enilobo appeared for the plaintiff.
Following the judgment, Chairman of Slic Inspire Ltd and Gosgem Records, Joseph Egbu, whose companies manage Sinach, together with the gospel artiste, expressed appreciation to the legal team led by Emeka Etiaba, SAN, for securing the favourable judgment.
The ruling reaffirmed Sinach as the sole author and owner of the copyright to “Way Maker.”
