The Nigeria Copyright Commission (NCC) has been summoned by the House of Representatives to take action in protecting the royalties and rights associated with the late singer Mohbad’s songs and lyrics.

This decision comes after Rep. Babajimi Benson (APC-Lagos) presented a motion during a plenary session in Abuja on Tuesday.

Benson, who moved the motion, emphasized that Mohbad’s tragic and mysterious demise on September 12 has continued to generate discussions nationwide and beyond.

He highlighted the protests and processions by youths, who chanted the late singer’s name while demanding an investigation. These events culminated in a tribute concert attended by several musicians.

The lawmaker pointed out that Mohbad’s fans are grappling with his untimely passing, describing the artist, also known as “Imole” in Yoruba, as one who sang about peace and light.

Benson revealed that Mohbad left Marlian Records, owned by Azeez Fashola (Naira Marley), in 2022 due to various issues, including unpaid royalties.

Benson argued that Mohbad’s case reflects a larger problem in the industry, where artists face difficulties in asserting their rights and are often trapped in unfavorable contractual agreements.

This situation not only restricts their creative freedom but also impedes their financial growth, potentially leading to disputes and even violence.

ALSO READ: Iyabo Ojo cautions against DNA demands, calls for respect for Mohbad’s wife

The lawmaker highlighted the absence of substantial institutional funding in the Nigerian music industry, which pushes many artists into exploitative contracts with record labels.

He stressed the urgency of addressing these issues to promote the industry’s growth and sustainability.

Benson expressed concern that most of Mohbad’s earnings were going to the Marlian Music Group, with no efforts made to protect the late singer’s estate, despite his ranking as the 46th best-selling digital artist globally.

In response, the House observed a minute of silence in Mohbad’s honor and called for the safeguarding of the rights of young promising artists engaged in contractual agreements with record labels.

It urged relevant agencies to oversee the ongoing investigation into Mohbad’s death, particularly regarding allegations of harassment and unpaid royalties.

Furthermore, the House called for collaboration between NCC, record labels, artists, legal experts, and industry associations to develop and implement industry-wide guidelines.

These guidelines aim to ensure fair treatment, transparent contractual agreements, and appropriate compensation for artists. The process will also involve a review of existing copyright and contract laws in Nigeria to identify areas requiring reform.