A Federal High Court sitting in Awka is currently handling a copyright infringement case filed against popular highlife musician, Mr. Chinaza Orakwue, also known as (Aro Nwa Nteje), over the unauthorized use of the song “Eze na Ukpo.”
The suit was instituted by Mr. Chika Achukwu, the son of the late renowned Igbo highlife legend, Chief Peter Achukwu, popularly known as (Ozoemena Nwa Nsugbe). According to the plaintiff, Aro Nwa Nteje unlawfully reproduced, adapted, recorded, publicly performed, distributed, and commercially exploited the musical work “Eze na Ukpo”, a song originally composed and made popular by the late Ozoemena Nwa Nsugbe, without seeking permission from the late artist’s family or estate.
Mr. Chika Achukwu is seeking a total of ₦8 billion in damages from the defendant. Specifically, the suit demands:
- ₦5 billion as aggravated damages for the infringement on the copyright of his late father, Chief Peter Achukwu.
- ₦3 billion as general damages for the unauthorized commercial and public use of the song “Eze na Ukpo.”
In addition to financial compensation, the plaintiff is praying the court to grant several other orders, including:
- A perpetual injunction restraining Mr. Orakwue, along with his agents, privies, assigns, and servants, from further distributing, performing, or deriving any financial benefit from the said music.
- An order mandating the immediate withdrawal of all copies of the infringing song from all forms of circulation, including digital platforms and physical distribution channels.
- An order compelling the defendant to render a full account of all income and proceeds generated from the song, and to file an affidavit of compliance with the court.
The case, which has generated significant buzz within the Igbo highlife music community, raises critical questions about copyright ownership, musical heritage, and respect for the legacies of departed musical icons.
As of now, Mr. Chinaza Orakwue (Aro Nwa Nteje) has not made any public statements or official responses regarding the lawsuit. The public and music industry observers alike are keenly awaiting his reaction to this legal challenge.
