The Federal High Court, Ikoyi, presided over by Honourable Justice Ibrahim Kala, has awarded the sum of Two Hundred and Ten Million Naira (₦210,000,000.00) against Airtel Nigeria in favour of veteran Nigerian singer, Veno Marioghae Mbanefo for copyright infringement of her 1985 hit song “Nigeria Go Survive”.
Imirror reported that Marioghae-Mbanefo sued Airtel for alleged copyright infringement, seeking cumulative damages of N350 million through her attorney, Rockson Igelige.
Rockson Igelige Esq. (right) flanked by Mr. Mike Igini Esq. Shortly after the court ruling in Lagos, on Monday
The plaintiff asked the court for a ruling that Airtel violated her right under Section 12 of the Copyright Act by using the song to advertise its services to subscribers without crediting her as the owner.
She also asked for a ruling that Airtel violated her copyright by using her song to promote its goods and services to subscribers without getting her permission, a license, or consent