Abuja, Nigeria – (African Boulevard News) – The Nigerian House of Representatives has summoned popular Nigerian musician, Naira Marley, over allegations of non-payment of royalties to his signee, Mohbad. The summons, issued on Thursday, comes after the House Committee on Justice, Youth, and Legislative Compliance received a petition from Mohbad’s legal representatives.
Mohbad, a rising star in the Nigerian music industry, signed a recording contract with Naira Marley’s record label, Marlian Music, in 2020. The contract stipulated that Mohbad would receive a percentage of the royalties from his music releases. However, Mohbad’s lawyers claim that the artist has not received the agreed-upon royalties, leading to the filing of the petition.
The House Committee on Justice, Youth, and Legislative Compliance, headed by Hon. Tolu Akande-Sadipe, has decided to investigate the matter and has summoned Naira Marley to appear before the committee. The committee aims to gather information and determine if there have been any breaches of contract or violations of copyright laws.
Speaking on the matter, Hon. Akande-Sadipe emphasized the importance of protecting the rights and welfare of artists. She stated, “It is crucial that artists are treated fairly and their rights are respected. The music industry is a significant contributor to our economy, and we must ensure a transparent and equitable system for artists and their royalties.”
The summons issued to Naira Marley has sparked a debate among industry experts and stakeholders. Many believe that this case sheds light on the larger issue of artist exploitation in the Nigerian music industry. Artists often face challenges when it comes to receiving their rightful royalties, and this case serves as a reminder of the need for stronger copyright protection and enforcement.
According to industry insiders, the Nigerian music industry has seen tremendous growth in recent years, with artists gaining international recognition. However, there is still a long way to go in terms of ensuring fair compensation for artists and protecting their intellectual property rights.
The House Committee’s decision to summon Naira Marley is a significant step towards addressing these challenges and seeking justice for artists like Mohbad. The outcome of this investigation could potentially set a precedent for the music industry and encourage fair treatment of artists and the enforcement of copyright laws.
As the proceedings unfold, the Nigerian music industry and its stakeholders eagerly await the outcome of the House Committee’s investigation. The case not only highlights the importance of protecting artists’ rights but also serves as a wake-up call for the industry to prioritize the fair and transparent distribution of royalties.
