Gospel Icon Sinach Sued for ₦5 Billion Over ‘Way Maker’ Copyright

By Fasuyi Tolulope Samuel

Nigerian gospel artist Sinach, born Osinachi Egbu, faces a legal challenge from producer Michael Oluwole, known as Maye, over her globally acclaimed song Way Maker.

Maye has filed a ₦5 billion lawsuit, alleging co-ownership of the song due to his production contributions, including recording, mixing, mastering, and creating instrumental arrangements.

Maye claims no formal contract existed between him and Sinach, despite the song’s massive success and his role in its production. He asserts that his compensation was insufficient for his input.

However, Sinach’s legal team disputes the claims, arguing that Way Maker was co-composed and arranged by other artists before Maye’s involvement. They maintain that Maye was solely responsible for mixing and was paid ₦150,000 for his services.

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The case, currently being heard at the Federal High Court in Lagos, has its next session scheduled for January 2025.

Released in December 2015, Way Maker has transcended boundaries, becoming a gospel anthem worldwide.

Singer, Sinach is one of the most streamed Nigerian artist in YouTube with ‘Way Maker’ one of the top songs contributing to this.

This lawsuit adds a complex layer to Sinach’s celebrated career, highlighting broader issues of copyright and compensation within Nigeria’s music industry, where similar disputes often end in out-of-court settlements.