NIGERIAN COPYRIGHT COMMISSION SUES MTN NIGERIA FOR ALLEGED MUSIC COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT

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The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has filed a lawsuit against MTN Nigeria Communications Ltd. and four others for allegedly violating copyright law. The case, filed in the Federal High Court, Abuja Division, accuses MTN and the other defendants of infringing on the musical works of artist Maleke Idowu Moye.

The Accused:

MTN Nigeria Communications Ltd.
Karl Toriola (MTN Nigeria CEO)
Nkeakam Abhulimen
Fun Mobile Ltd.
Yahaya Maibe

The Allegations:

The NCC claims that between 2010 and 2017, the defendants offered, sold, and distributed Maleke Moye’s music without his permission.
This allegedly included using his songs as Caller Ring Back Tunes (CRBTs) without authorization.
Specific songs mentioned include “911,” “Minimini-wanawana,” and “Stop Racism.”

The Law:

The NCC alleges that these actions violate Sections 20 (2) (a), (b), and (c) of the Nigerian Copyright Act.

The Status of the Case:

The case has yet to be assigned to a judge and no court date has been set.

Potential Consequences:

If found guilty, the defendants could face various penalties under the Copyright Act, including:
- Financial damages to be paid to Maleke Moye
- Court orders preventing them from further copyright infringement
- Seizure of infringing materials

This lawsuit highlights the importance of copyright protection for musicians and the role of the NCC in enforcing copyright law in Nigeria.