Omenuwoma Okson Dovie, better known by his fans as Baba 2010, is demanding a N500 million compensation from telecommunications firm MTN, for alleged copyright violations.
In a statement released by Felix Igelige and associates, Baba 2010 accused MTN of violating his copyright to four songs and also infringing on his moral rights.
“For about three years, MTN has been selling the four songs (Gentleman, Omotena, Twisted and Unity Song) in form of caller tunes and, or, ringtones to its subscribers,” Igelige said in the statement.
“The permission of copyright owner Baba 2010 was never sought or obtained by MTN.
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“By not obtaining copyright ownership Baba 2010’s prior permission or licence before engaging repeatedly in the aforementioned acts of appropriating and selling the works, MTN’s conduct amounts to stealing and deliberate infringement of copyright.”
It further stated that a letter had been written to Micheal Ikpoki, chief executive officer of MTN, stating the demands of the artiste, which include desisting from further infringing on his copyright and a contract with the artiste for further use of his works.
Baba 2010 gave MTN a 14-day notice starting from August 24 to take the reconciliatory and compensative actions, without which he would seek legal action for injunctive relief, criminal charges and damages.
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The album titled ‘Buy Africa’ was released in 2005 by the Abuja-based musician.
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