Why court ordered CAF to pay $250k to a Ghanaian music producer

Ghanaian music producer Kwabena Ofei-Kwadey Nkrumah, well known as Kobby Spiky, has won a copyright infringement case against the Confederation of African Football (CAF), as reported by citinewsroom.com.

In 2022, Spiky filed a lawsuit against CAF accusing them of using his music beat, "Okomfo Anokye," for promotional purposes without his consent.

The court, led by Justice Emmanuel Lodoh, ruled in Spiky's favour after a two-year legal battle.

CAF admitted to using Spiky's work for promotional activities but denied any commercial use.

The court ordered CAF to remove all infringing materials from social media and awarded Spiky damages equivalent to $250,000 in Ghanaian cedis.

Reacting to the ruling, Spiky emphasized the broader significance of the victory for the entire creative arts industry.

“This victory isn’t just for me; it’s a win, especially for all creatives and for young Ghanaians who have lost faith in the system. Our legal system works, and intellectual property rights are real and respected in Ghana.

"Just as they say, ‘The wheels of justice turn slowly, but grind exceedingly fine,’” he said according to citinewsroom.com.

SB/OGB