Court dismisses N5bn copyright suit, confirms Sinach as sole owner of ‘Way Maker’
Federal Court Affirms Sinach’s Copyright Ownership of “Way Maker”
A Federal High Court in Lagos has dismissed a N5 billion copyright lawsuit against renowned Nigerian gospel artist Osinachi Joseph Egbu, widely known as Sinach. The court ruled that Sinach is the sole author and copyright holder of the hit song “Way Maker.”
Justice A. Lewis-Allagoa delivered the judgment on July 24, 2026, determining that music producer Michael Oluwole did not substantiate his claims of co-authorship or co-ownership of the award-winning track.
Oluwole initiated the legal action in March 2024, seeking recognition as a co-author and co-owner of “Way Maker.” He also sought damages and a share of the song’s revenue, alleging infringement of his performer’s rights.
The court found that Oluwole’s role was limited to mixing and mastering an existing work after he was contracted and compensated. Evidence presented indicated that Sinach had created and performed “Way Maker” prior to engaging Oluwole’s services.
According to the judgment, Sinach had already performed the song internationally before its studio release. Justice Lewis-Allagoa stated that copyright ownership belongs to the individual who is responsible for the original creative aspects of a work, including melody, harmony, lyrics, or arrangement. He emphasized that technical contributors, such as producers and sound engineers, do not automatically acquire authorship unless they provide original expressive content.
The court characterized the lawsuit as unmeritorious and dismissed all claims by the plaintiff. It also reaffirmed Sinach’s exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute, perform, and license the song under Nigeria’s copyright laws.
In response to the ruling, Sinach and her husband, Joseph Egbu, who chairs Slic Inspire Ltd. and Gosgem Records, expressed their satisfaction with the court’s decision.
