COSON To Go On War Path With Hotels In Imo State As "Operation No Hiding Place" Goes East

Chief Tony Okoroji

From every indication there could be a possible confrontation brewing between owners of hotels, night clubs, restaufaunts and events venues in Imo State on the one hand, and the Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON) on the other. The reason is that COSON, the country's only approved collecting society, has begun a high wire act of full enforcement of its mandate to fight music copyright defaulters in the state. This is also in furtherance of COSON's efforts to spread its nationwide battle titled "Operation No Hiding Place".

A COSON delegation led by the Chairman, Chief Tony Okoroji was in Imo State for several days from February 20 to ensure that no stone is left unturned in the battle and no one who deploys music in a commercial or public space in Imo State escapes ‘Operation No Hiding Place’

Speaking at a meeting with the Hoteliers Association of Nigeria, Imo State, at Lobic Meridian Hotel Owerri on Wednesday, February 22, 2017, Chief Okoroji described COSON as a very professional and socially responsible organization which believes strongly in dealing with issues first through dialogue. He said that it was in that light that the delegation came to Imo State to engage the hotel owners and other key institutions with interest in music copyright. He appealed to the hotel owners to respect the intellectual property rights of citizens by obtaining the appropriate copyright licence before deploying music in their operations. Chief Okoroji also said that it is far cheaper to obtain a COSON copyright licence than to be entangled in a very expensive copyright infringement law suit which COSON is sure to bring against any defaulting hotel. Emphasizing the point, Chief Okoroji informed the hoteliers that immediately after addressing them, he would be on his way to Lagos so as to be at the Federal High Court the next morning for the trial in a N500 million copyright infringement law suit filed by COSON against a Lagos based hotel, Lagos Oriental Hotel.

Continuing, the former President of PMAN said, “COSON has spent substantial funds to organize a major stakeholders’ forum in Owerri during which we engaged music users in the state on the need to comply with the Copyright Act. We have also been engaged in a substantial public enlightenment campaign in the state. We believe that we have gone a long way to make sure that everyone understands his responsibility. We want to have a cordial relationship with the hotel owners in the state and we expect the association to inform its members of their duty to respect their copyright obligations. In the new digital world, respect for intellectual property rights is central to the growth of any economy”.

In response, the Chairman of the Hotelliers Association, Chief Ishmael Nweke thanked Chief Okoroji whom he described as a proud son of Imo State. He commended COSON for the visit and assured the delegation that the issues raised would be thoroughly discussed and the details streamlined with the COSON Consultant in the state.

It will be recalled that in 2016, COSON hosted a major stakeholders meeting at Rockview Hotel, Owerri to which different music user groups were invited. The meeting was also attended by the Imo State Governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha and several of his commissioners.

During the recent Imo storm, the delegation visited several broadcasting stations in the state such as Heartland FM, Hot FM, My Radio FM, etc. The Delegation also met with the Police Area Commander for Owerri, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Mr. Francis Atim Bissong.

On the COSON delegation was the General Manager, Mr. Chinedu Chukwuji, Hon John Ewelukwa Udegbunam, a COSON Director and Sir Edwin Akwaeze, COSON Consultant in Imo State.

Nigerian Polo Great, 2 Others Star On Glo-sponsored African Voices

Neku Atawodi

Guess who is next on the Globs comes pondered television programme, CNN African Voices. Well viewers had better watch out for Nigeria's polo queen, Neku Atawodi will be featuring on the show alongside two other female sports greats shaking the African continent presently.

The two other guests are Bianca Buitendag  of Victoria Bay, South Africa, and Shehzana Anwar of Nairobi, Kenya.

The story of Atawodi is an exciting one. She is regarded as the world’s only active black female professional polo player.

A statement from Globacom said 28 year-oldAtawodi holds a bachelor of science degree in Equestrian Science and a Masters degree in International Business. She has a British Horse Society stage 4 riding accreditation.

Her foray into the game, generally reserved for the men folk, began with her strange love for“the smell of dirty leather.” Atawodi  gradually grew into a legend on the sport and ended up playing professional polo in over fourteen countries. She now sits on the prestigious Federation of International Polo.

The statement revealed that viewers will have a peek into her journey into professional polo which started at age 13 and how, despite subtle discouragement from family members, she remained focused on her ambition until she got to the peak.

The second guest, Shehzana Anwar is the reigning African Archery Champion. She competed in archery at the Rio de Janeiro Olympics where she was the Kenyan flag-bearer. Born in 1989, Shehzana started archery in 2002 and made her international debut in 2008.

The third guest, Bianca Buitendag is a South African professional surfer. She was born in Western Cape, South Africa, in 1993, and grew up near the beach of False Bay outside of Cape Town where she learned to surf at age 8 with her two brothers.

Buitendag  qualified onto the ASP world tour in 2013, and finished the year with the highly coveted ‘Rookie of The Year' Award at the ASP awards ceremony.  According to her, she owes a lot of her success to her father.

“My father was the one who pushed me into my first wave, and he has been supporting me ever since that day. He introduced me to what I know and call ‘my first love’, the ocean, and to a sport that I will do for as long as I can walk”, she revealed.

Viewers will see more of these amazons on the CNN magazine programme which airs at 10.30 a.m. on Fridays with repeat editions at 2.30 p.m. on Saturdays, 12.30 a.m. and 7.30 p.m. on Sundays. Viewers can also watch the show on Mondays at 11:30 p.m. and on Tuesdays at 5.30 a.m.

COSON =N=500 M Copyright uit Against Lagos Oriental Hotel Commences @ Fed. High Court

Trial on Thursday, February 24, 2017, commenced before Justice Babs O. Kuewumi of the Federal High Court, Lagos in the Five Hundred Million Naira copyright infringement action brought by Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON), against Lagos Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island and Mr. Philip Speilhage, General Manager of the organization.

Chief Tony Okoroji, Chairman of the Board of the organization, a former President of PMAN and author of the celebrated book, ‘Copyright & the New Millionaires’, was in the court as witness on behalf of COSON. The renowned copyright activist was Led in evidence by Lagos Intellectual Property lawyer, Mr. Justin Ige of Creative Legal who appeared for COSON with Mr. Obi Onyewuchi.

Under cross examination by Mr. Durojaiye Mufutua, lawyer to Lagos Oriental Hotel, Chief Okoroji who tendered evidence that he had spent some time at the hotel, testified that by providing the venue for infringement of copyright in music, the hotel was aiding the infringement and therefore was liable. Okoroji also testified that the responsibility of the hotel does not end with the provision of the venue and other facilities but included ensuring that the music performed in its premises was not infringing music. Justice Kuewumi thereafter adjourned the matter to May 22 for continuation of trial.

In the Suit No. FHC/L/CS/1091/15, COSON is asking for the award of more than five hundred million naira in unpaid royalties and damages for the unauthorized copying, communication to the public, permission to perform in public and infringement of the copyright in the musical works and sound recordings belonging to COSON members, affiliates and assignors.

It will be recalled that when the case was filed in 2015, Okoroji had said, ‘Contrary to the belief in some quarters, Nigeria is not a lawless country. Our laws work. We have gone to court to find out if Lagos Oriental Hotel is special and above Nigerian law. As of today, several top hotels doing business across Nigeria are obeying the law, have got authorization for the music they deploy and are paying royalties for the deployment of the music. Such hotels include Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island; Transcorp Hilton, Abuja; Sheraton Hotel & Towers, Abuja; Protea Hotel, GRA, Ikeja; Intercontinental Hotel, Victoria Island; Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Raddison Blu, Victoria Island; Chelsea Hotel, Abuja, Sereba Hotel, Edo, Rockview Hotel, Abuja;  The Moore House, Ikoyi;  Protea Hotel, Victoria Island, Santex Hotel, Edo State; Wheatbaker Hotel, Ikoyi, Valencia Hotel, Abuja;  Southern Sun, Ikoyi, Nanet Suites, Abuja;  Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja; Protea Hotel, Abuja, Savoy Suites, Ikeja, Agura Hotel, Abuja; Golden Tulip, Lagos, Victoria Beach Hotel, Lagos, etc. We believe in our courts and we are very interested in finding out if Nigerian laws will be turned upside down just for this set of people.”

Commenting on the development, COSON General Manager, Mr. Chinedu Chukwuji, said, ‘We have always been one to deliver on our words at COSON. Last year we lunched ‘Operation No Hiding Place’ and promised all music users who have continued to show disdain for the rights of our members and affiliates that they are in for a rough ride. We are approved by the government to revolutionize the copyright culture in Nigeria for the good of the nation. We will continue to do that without any apologies. We are on course and we are not looking back”.

NANS Uncovers Plans To Use Students For Anti-Xenophobia Protests

Cmrd. Chinonso Obasi

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has condemned what it described as plans to call students out to protest against xenophobia attacks in South Africa.
A statement issued by NANS and signed by its national president, Comrade Chinonso OBASI, disclosed that the proposed protests scheduled to hold Thursday, February 23, 2017 in major cities in Nigeria, was calculated to disrupted the harmonious student unionism and the academic progress of Nigerian youths.
The statement added: "While we condemn all firms of discrimination, particularly on foreigners, NANS believes that calling out students for a mass protest at this point in time when they are engaged in serious preparation for their semester examinations dies not augur well for their academic and social health".
Here is the statement:
"The attention of National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), has been drawn to a plan by enemies of harmonious student unionism and academic progress of Nigerian youths to mobilise students for a purported protest against Xenophobe attacks in South Africa.
The protests have been scheduled to take place simultaneously on Thursday February 23 2017 in major cities in Nigeria.
While we condemn all forms of discrimination, particularly attacks on foreigners, NANS believes that calling out Nigerian students for a mass protest at this point in time when they are engaged in serious preparation for their semester examinations does not augur well for their academic and social health.
Moreover, it behooves of rascality to mobilize students for street protests or even to stampede South Africa firms doing business in Nigeria, especially the MTN, MultiChoice among others, when there is no evidence linking the firms to the obnoxious attacks in South Africa.
As a responsible students union, we believe that there is sanity in the saying that no two wrongs can make a right. In the language of Michelle Obama, the wife of the former United States President, Barack Obama, when they go low, should go high. Therefore NANS urges those planning to protest the violence in South Africa with violation of peace and freedom in Nigeria to mount the high moral ground of civility against the barbaric attacks on aliens in South Africa.
We are informed that Nigeria and other countries have begun diplomatic efforts to ensure that the Xenophobe attacks do not go further. It is our belief that the South African authorities should do all in their power to curtail the excesses of its misguided citizens that may want to vent their frustrations on law abiding citizens of other countries in their nation."

BON Visits COSON, Pledges Co-operation

L-R Mr. Chinedu Chukwuji, COSON General Manager, Mrs. Azeezat Allen, COSON Director, Mr. John Momoh, BON Chairman, Chief Tony Okoroji,  COSON Chairman, Mr. Segun Olaleye, BON Secretary, Mr. Kenny Ogungbe, DAAR Communications and Mr. Efe Omorogbe, COSON Director at a crucial between BON and COSON which held at the COSON headquarters in Lagos on Monday, February 20, 2017.

The  Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON), has expressed its commitment to cooperate with the Copyright Organisation of Nigeria (COSON) in ensuring that all broadcasting stations in Nigeria pay agreed music  copyright royalties in fulfilment of the obligations of the stations under the COSON/BON/IBAN/NBC/NCC Agreement of 2014.

Chairman of BON Mr.John Momoh, made the pledge while speaking at the COSON Headquarters in Ikeja Monday, February 20, 2017 during a crucial meeting between the BON leadership and that of COSON Mr. Momoh who is also the chairman of Channels Television arrived the COSON headquarters in the company of BON executive members including the organisation's Executive Secretary, Mr. Segun Olaleye and Mr. Kenny Ogungbe of DAAR Communications.

The COSON Representatives led by the society’s Chairman, Chief Tony Okoroji, had General Manager, Mr. Chinedu Chukwuji and two other members of the COSON Board, Mr. Efe Omorogbe and Mrs. Azeezat Allen.

According to Mr. Momoh, every law in the land must be respected and there is no reason, any broadcast station in Nigeria should avoid payment of music copyright royalties as provided under the law. In his words “I pledge my commitment to work with COSON and to ensure full compliance from our members. This meeting is long in coming. We will meet with our members around the country. I am a stickler for the obedience of the law; It is imperative and obligatory that we pay what we have agreed to”

Chairman, Copyright Society of Nigeria, (COSON), Chief Tony Okoroji commended the new Chairman of BON for taking the bull by the horn and creating the atmosphere for peaceful resolution of the issues. He also commended Mr. Momoh for showing good examples by making sure that Channels TV continuously fulfils its copyright obligations to COSON.
Chief Okoroji said that COSON remains committed to ensuring that Nigeria is a nation in which intellectual property rights are highly respected because according to him, respect for intellectual property is critical to tapping the significant economic potentials of the nation’s creative industries for national development. He also said that he remains fully dedicated to complete transparency, accountability and comprehensive reporting to the different COSON stakeholder groups which he said are the hallmarks of the success and continued growth of COSON.

In recognition of the prevailing economic situation in the country, one of the key decisions taken at the meeting is to extend the life of the 2014 royalty agreement meant to terminate in December 2016. The agreement is now to terminate in December 2017 without any increase in tariffs. Mr. Momoh thanked the COSON leadership for the gesture. It was also agreed that the two organizations meet regularly to review developments.

Lowly Background Motivates Rapper, Olamide

Rapper, Olamide's lowly background is the major reason for his reaching for the very top. And just how exciting is it that Olamide has a woman that makes his liver quiver? Well, just so you know, he's as talented a rapper as he is loyal.
The Bariga raised rapper threw some light on his personality during an interview with Punch's Sunday Scoop.
What we all know about the "Abule Sowo" rapper's love life has been restricted to his son, Batifeori Maximilliano, but as they say, behind every successful man...
Besides, someone had to carry and deliver his son.
Speaking on this incredible mysterious woman who has held him down for the last decade plus, with a smile lighting up his face, Olamide said:
“I’ve actually been in a relationship for about 17 years now. As a matter of fact, she’s the most important reason I am where I am today. Her name is music.”
Speaking of the driving force behind his career, he said, “My major motivation comes from knowing that I came from the bottom, and I don’t want to go back there. I want to live a good life, and because of that, my working life is a relentless grind.
 "I don’t want to go broke, and I don’t want anybody to look down on me. I’m still on top of my game because I don’t see myself as everything. I take advice from my mom, manager, and label mates, and they always help.
"They’re responsible for some of my ideas. Some things that people see and think is all about Baddo is actually their brainwork.”
He adds: “I didn’t start out to be an average artiste, I wanted to stand out. Right now, I’m living my dreams. All I can say is that my life right now is a dream come true.”
It is most soothing to know that as far as Olmide has come, he remains loyal and easy to relate with and that's why we love him!

Ebenezer Obey Celebrates "Uncommon Grace" As He Approaches 75

EVANG. Ebenezer Obey

Among the lot that Evangelist Ebenezer Obey-Fabiyi has to be grateful for, the summit is "uncommon grace."
The veteran singer had beautiful words to say following the announcement of his upcoming 75th birthday celebration.
Sharing his feelings on the new milestone, Obey said:
“I am delighted and grateful to God for this uncommon grace and privilege to have come this far. I can’t thank Him enough because He is the reason behind my journey in life and my talent which grows from grace to grace. To me, it is a rare privilege and I owe God unlimited praises. Above all, I am grateful to God for the good life I have enjoyed as well as the fame. I also appreciate my fans all over the world and my entire family for their support.
“The activities marking my 75th birthday are not about jamboree, but to deeply appreciate God for the journey so far and also to leave a legacy behind. I look forward to an awesome event that will glorify God,” he added.
 Tribune Online reports that the music legend paid a visit to Idogo town last Tuesday, to inspect the readiness of the new Idogo community Police Post in Yewa-South Local Government Area of Ogun State, which is an initiative he has described as part of his community give-back intervention projects marking the commencement of his birthday celebration and the sixth posthumous birthday of his wife, Evangelist Juliana Olaide Obey-Fabiyi on March 23.
According to him, everything needed for the celebration has been out in place as the planning committee would be officially inaugurated on Tuesday in Lagos.
The event will take place at the Obasanjo Presidential Library, Bamora Event Centre, Abeaokuta, on April 3, 2017,with an interdenominational service put together by the Ebenezer Obey Evangelistic Ministry and Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), official launch of the Ebenezer Obey Music Foundation and a reception.
It was gathered that friends and well-wishers also plan other activities which would include public presentation of a book on Obey, music compendium, among other events, which would take place in Lagos following the main celebrations.