Efe Omorogbe, a prominent entertainment expert and founder of Now Muzik Group, has shared his perspective on the ongoing conflict between gospel artist Mercy Chinwo and her former label, EeZee Conceptz. His comments follow recent statements by Apostle Anselm Madubuko, who has claimed a role in mediating the dispute.
Omorogbe, speaking as both a music industry expert and an attendee of a recent mediation meeting, provided clarity on the situation. In a video shared on his Instagram, Omorogbe disclosed that he participated in a mediation session on May 13, 2024, which included Mercy Chinwo, representatives from EeZee Conceptz, Hilda Dokubo, Apostle Anselm Madubuko, and Mena Ajakpovi, as well as the husbands of Mercy Chinwo and Judi Kay. The key issue discussed at the meeting was the transfer of master rights for their music catalogues.
Omorogbe explained that under typical industry agreements, master rights are usually owned by the record label. If an artist wishes to acquire these rights, it must be done through a formal process, which typically involves a valuation of the catalogue, followed by negotiations and a fair buyout offer. He emphasized that it is not industry practice to forcibly compel a label to relinquish such rights.
“Master rights are typically owned by the label under standard industry agreements,” Omorogbe clarified. “If an artist wants to acquire these rights, they must follow proper procedures. This includes conducting a valuation of the catalogue, making an offer to the label, and negotiating a fair agreement. Forcing a label to give up master rights is not in line with global industry practices.”
Responding to Apostle Madubuko’s recent claims that EeZee Conceptz has obstructed prior reconciliation attempts, Omorogbe acknowledged the difficulties inherent in such disputes but stressed the importance of respecting contracts and resolving conflicts with transparency and professionalism. He pointed out that similar situations have been resolved through negotiations, citing Burna Boy’s successful efforts to repurchase his master rights from Aristokrat Records in his earlier career as an example.
Omorogbe reiterated that the proper route for resolving such disputes is for the artist to offer to buy the master rights at a fair valuation, which the label can either accept or reject.
The mediation meeting, held at the residence of a respected reverend, also involved representatives from both Mercy Chinwo and EeZee Conceptz, gospel artist Judikay, legal counsel for EeZee Conceptz, and veteran actress Hilda Dokubo. Omorogbe attended the session to offer his industry insight and contribute to resolving the situation.
In conclusion, Omorogbe emphasized, “This is an issue that can be resolved professionally and amicably. There is no need for compulsion, law enforcement, or unnecessary escalation. Negotiation is the right path to resolve such matters.”
The ongoing dispute between Mercy Chinwo, Judi Kay, and EeZee Conceptz has drawn significant public attention, with allegations from both sides regarding financial mismanagement, contract violations, and the ownership of the artists' music catalogues.
RELATED: Court Issues Arrest Warrant for Mercy Chinwo’s Ex-Manager Over $345k Fraud
