The Battle Over Way Maker: Sinach Faces a ₦5 Billion Lawsuit
The Battle Over Way Maker: Sinach Faces a ₦5 Billion Lawsuit.
Sinach, Nigeria’s celebrated gospel artist, is making headlines—not for another groundbreaking song but for a courtroom battle over her global hit, Way Maker. Michael Oluwole, known as Maye, has filed a ₦5 billion lawsuit, alleging copyright infringement and claiming co-ownership of the song.
This development has sparked discussions in the music industry, not just about the song itself but also about the broader implications of intellectual property rights in Nigeria. The stakes are high, as Way Maker song isn’t just any song; it’s a global anthem that has transcended cultural, religious, and geographical boundaries.
Why This Case Way Maker Song Lawsuit Matters
Way Maker is a song that millions have come to love and rely on for spiritual encouragement. Released on December 30, 2015, it has grown beyond expectations, becoming a cornerstone in global worship. Covered by artists like Michael W. Smith, Mandisa, and Leeland, and translated into over 50 languages, its influence is undeniable.
The Way Maker lawsuit challenges the narrative of the song’s creation, raising serious questions about credit and who owns the song Way Maker in the music industry. Maye, Michael Oluwole claims against Sinach is that his work as a studio engineer on the track—contributions that allegedly included recording, mixing, mastering, and creating instrumental accompaniments—entitles him to co-ownership.
He argues that Sinach commercially released the song without formalizing agreements or compensating him adequately. Represented by Justin Ige of Creative Legal, Maye is demanding a significant share of the song’s earnings, alleging a violation of his performer’s rights.
The Battle Over Way Maker: Sinach Faces a ₦5 Billion Lawsuit
What Maye Hopes to Achieve against Sinach copyright claims
Maye’s demands are far-reaching. In his lawsuit filed at the Federal High Court in Lagos under case number FHC/L/CS/402/2024, he seeks:
- Recognition as a co-owner of Way Maker.
- A fair division of all earnings from licensing, royalties, and copyright assignments.
- Full disclosure of all financial streams tied to the song.
- ₦5 billion in damages for the alleged infringement of his rights.
- A court order barring Sinach from reproducing or performing the song without his consent.
Maye describes the alleged exclusion from the song’s proceeds as “deliberate and oppressive.”
The Battle Over Way Maker: Sinach Faces a ₦5 Billion Lawsuit
Sinach’s Side of the Story in Way Maker Copyright Battle
For Sinach, the allegations are both surprising and baseless. Represented by Emeka Etiaba (SAN) of Etiaba Chambers, she denies Maye’s claims, maintaining that she is the sole author of Way Maker.
Her legal team argues that the song was fully composed, arranged, and performed in collaboration with other artists like Nwabude Chude Arinze before Maye came on board. According to them, Maye’s involvement was limited to mixing the master recording—a service for which he was paid ₦150,000. They argue that this payment settled any obligations, leaving no room for claims of co-ownership or additional compensation.
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The defense team has also questioned the validity of Maye’s claims, arguing that the song was already a completed work by the time he contributed his services.
The Legacy of “Way Maker” Under Scrutiny
While the courtroom battle unfolds, it’s crucial to remember the incredible legacy of Way Maker. The song has achieved remarkable milestones which includes:
- It topped the Billboard Christian Songwriters Chart in 2020, making Sinach the first African artist to do so.
- It won Song of the Year at the 2020 GMA Dove Awards, an honor never before achieved by a Nigerian artist.
- It became the first African gospel song to win the BMI Song of the Year Award in 2021.
Beyond accolades, Way Maker has served as a unifying anthem during critical moments in recent history. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it was sung in honor of healthcare workers worldwide, becoming a symbol of hope and resilience. The song also played a significant role in the George Floyd protests, providing a voice of comfort and strength amid the turmoil.
The music video, directed by Ose Iria, added to the song’s impact. Released alongside the track in December 2015, it garnered over 100 million views by March 2019, making Sinach the first Nigerian gospel artist to achieve this milestone on YouTube.
Broader Copyright Challenges In Nigeria Music Industry
The case has sparked broader discussions about copyright and intellectual property in Nigeria’s music industry. It isn’t the first time such issues have come to light. Similar disputes include:
- Tuface and Blackface (2016): Blackface accused Tuface of stealing the song African Queen. The two eventually settled out of court, with Tuface agreeing to pay royalties.
- Danfo Drivers and Tekno (2018): The Afrobeat duo accused Tekno of sampling their hit Kpolongo in his song Jogodo. This case, too, ended in an out-of-court resolution.
These incidents highlight a recurring issue: the lack of formal agreements in creative collaborations. While Nigerian artists are known for their innovative music, disputes like these show the need for stronger legal frameworks and awareness about intellectual property rights.
The Battle Over Way Maker: Sinach Faces a ₦5 Billion Lawsuit
Who Is Sinach?
Sinach’s story is one of resilience and faith. Born in Ebonyi State, she studied physics at the University of Port Harcourt before finding her calling in gospel music. Her journey began in Christ Embassy Church, where she was mentored by Pastor Chris Oyakhilome.
Over the years, she has become a global force in gospel music, releasing nine studio albums and penning timeless hits like I Know Who I Am and The Name of Jesus. Her accolades include the prestigious GMA Dove Song of the Year Award, cementing her place in music history.
In 2023, her contributions were recognized globally when she was named a global ambassador by the Commonwealth of Dominica. Beyond her career, Sinach is a devoted wife to Pastor Joseph Egbu and a loving mother to their daughter, Rhoda.
A Closer Look at Collaboration
While the case is still in court, it serves as a reminder of the complexities of collaboration in the music industry. Producing a song often involves multiple contributors—lyricists, composers, engineers, and performers—all of whom play vital roles.
The absence of formal agreements can lead to disputes, especially when a project becomes commercially successful. Sinach’s case underscores the importance of clarity and fairness in partnerships, ensuring all contributors are acknowledged and compensated appropriately.
What’s Next on Sinach Lawsuit Updates?
The court has adjourned the case to January 29 and 30, 2025, giving Sinach’s defense team time to present its arguments on the Way Maker Copyright dispute. The outcome will undoubtedly be significant, not just for the parties involved but for the broader music industry.
Regardless of the verdict, Sinach’s influence on gospel music remains undisputed. Her ability to create songs that resonate with people worldwide is a testament to her talent and unwavering faith.
Way Maker is more than just a song; it’s a movement. It has inspired worship, brought hope during crises, and united people across continents. While the courtroom battle continues, its message of faith and perseverance endures.
Final Thoughts
“Sinach’s story is one of inspiration, but it also highlights the challenges artists face as they navigate success. Her journey from a church singer to a global icon reminds us of the power of music to heal and unite. Yet, the current lawsuit serves as a cautionary tale about the need for proper documentation and respect for intellectual property in creative endeavors”, as quoted by Samuel Isaiah a fellow gospel artist.
The Sinach Way Maker lawsuit raises critical question about copyright ownership in gospel music .
As we wait for the court’s decision, one thing is certain: the legacy of Way Maker remains untouchable. It is a beacon of hope, reminding us all of the miracles possible when we have faith.
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