Music producer Oluwole Michael, professionally known as Maye, has launched a lawsuit against Nigerian gospel singer Osinachi Egbu, also known as Sinach.
The lawsuit claims copyright infringement for her successful song, Way Maker, which was published in 2016.
In the complaint, Maye claims to be a co-author and co-owner of the song.
He is seeking N5 billion in damages for the claimed infringement of his rights, as well as recognition of his portion of the track’s earnings.
Maye claims that he played an important role in the production process, working as a studio engineer and mixing, recording, and mastering the song.
He claims that Sinach released the song without his permission, thereby infringing his rights.
Sinach, who was represented by Emeka Etiaba, refuted Maye’s allegations, claiming that she was the sole owner of the song.
Her lawyer underlined that Maye’s role was restricted to mixing the recording, for which he was properly compensated.
The matter was heard in a High Court on Tuesday, and the proceedings were extended until January 29 and 30, 2025, to allow the defence to submit its case.
Way Maker, released in 2016, immediately became a global anthem, cementing Sinach’s status as a key player in gospel music.
The song created history by making her the first African singer to top the Billboard Christian charts and winning Song of the Year at the 2020 Gospel Music Association’s Dove Awards, among other honours.
