The Battle Over Way Maker: Sinach Faces a ₦5 Billion Lawsuit.
Sinach, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated gospel singers, is at the center of a legal storm over her global hit song Way Maker. Michael Oluwole, also known as Maye, has filed a ₦5 billion lawsuit, claiming copyright infringement and demanding co-ownership of the iconic track.
The lawsuit, filed at the Federal High Court in Lagos under case number FHC/L/CS/402/2024, has shaken the music community. Maye, a producer and studio engineer, alleges that he contributed significantly to the creation of Way Make.Way Maker. According to him, he was responsible for recording, mixing, mastering, and creating instrumental accompaniments, including piano, strings, and synthesizers.
But here’s where it gets heated: Maye claims that Sinach commercially released the song without formal agreements or compensation for his contributions. He argues this violates his rights and demands a share of all revenues generated by the song.
The Battle Over Way Maker: Sinach Faces a ₦5 Billion Lawsuit
What Maye Wants
Through his lawyer, Justin Ige of Creative Legal, Maye is seeking several declarations and remedies:
- Co-ownership of Way Maker.
- A fair share of all earnings from licensing and copyright assignments.
- Disclosure of all revenue streams related to the song.
- Compensation of ₦5 billion for damages.
- A court order stopping Sinach from reproducing, distributing, or performing the song without his consent.
Maye describes Sinach’s actions as “deliberate and oppressive,” accusing her of ignoring his performer’s rights.
Sinach’s Defense
Sinach, however, isn’t backing down. Represented by Emeka Etiaba (SAN) of Etiaba Chambers, she denies the allegations and maintains that she is the sole author of Way Maker.
According to her legal team, the song was fully composed and arranged before Maye’s involvement. His role, they argue, was strictly limited to mixing the master recording—a task for which he was paid ₦150,000. They contend that this payment absolves her of any further obligations.
Samuel Isaiah – Nnam Eze (The Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo GOSPEL)
Sinach’s team has also dismissed Maye’s claims to co-ownership, questioning the legitimacy of his contributions and arguing that he has no legal claim to royalties or copyright.
Courtroom Drama
The trial, which began at the Federal High Court in Lagos, has seen Maye testify under cross-examination, affirming his claims. Sinach’s defense team has pushed back strongly, calling his allegations baseless.
The case has now been adjourned to January 29 and 30, 2025, when Sinach’s team will present their side.
The Legacy of Way Maker
While the lawsuit unfolds, it’s impossible to ignore the monumental impact of Way Maker. Released on December 30, 2015, the song has become a global phenomenon. It has been performed by renowned artists like Michael W. Smith and Mandisa, translated into over 50 languages, and sung in worship services worldwide.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Way Maker became a beacon of hope, with people singing it to honor healthcare workers and during protests for justice, including the George Floyd demonstrations in the U.S. Its universal message of faith and resilience has touched millions.
The song has achieved historic milestones:
- It topped the Billboard Christian Songwriters Chart in 2020, making Sinach the first African artist to achieve this.
- It won Song of the Year at the 2020 GMA Dove Awards, another first for a Nigerian artist.
- It became the first African gospel song to win the BMI Song of the Year Award in 2021.
The song’s music video, directed by Ose Iria, reached over 100 million views on YouTube by 2019, setting another record for Sinach.
Who Is Sinach?
Beyond the lawsuit, Sinach’s story is one of inspiration and impact. Born in Ebonyi State, she holds a degree in physics from the University of Port Harcourt. Her music career began in Christ Embassy Church, where she was mentored by Pastor Chris Oyakhilome.
Sinach has released nine studio albums and penned timeless hits like I Know Who I Am and The Name of Jesus. Her accolades include becoming the first Nigerian to win the GMA Dove Song of the Year Award. In 2023, she was named a global ambassador by the Commonwealth of Dominica.
Her personal life is equally fulfilling. Married to Pastor Joseph Egbu, she is a devoted mother to their daughter, Rhoda.
What’s Next?
The Battle Over Way Maker: Sinach Faces a ₦5 Billion Lawsuit
As the legal proceedings continue, the outcome will likely set a precedent for copyright disputes in Nigeria. Regardless of the court’s decision, one thing remains clear: Sinach’s influence on gospel music is unmatched.
Her ability to create songs that resonate with people worldwide is a testament to her talent and faith. Whether in times of celebration or crisis, her music continues to uplift and inspire.
Way Maker is more than just a song—it’s a legacy. And while the courtroom drama plays out, its message of hope and perseverance remains unshaken.