Beautiful Nubia Accuses Gospel Singers of Intellectual Property Theft
Veteran Nigerian folk singer Beautiful Nubia has publicly accused two gospel artists, Yinka Ayefele and BBO, of allegedly stealing melodies from his classic 2002 track Seven Lives. In a strongly worded Instagram post, the respected songwriter claimed that his original composition provided the melodic blueprint for Ayefele's 2012 hit My Faith in God (Igbagbo Ireti) and BBO's 2026 trending single Amin.
Allegations of Copyright Infringement
Beautiful Nubia detailed the alleged instances of copying, stating that the first occurrence dates back to 2012 with Yinka Ayefele's song. He further referenced the more recent track by BBO, released this year, asserting that both works borrowed heavily from Seven Lives without permission. The folk legend specifically called out "so-called gospel singers," questioning when they will learn to respect intellectual property rights.
In his post, Beautiful Nubia wrote, "When will Nigerians (especially so-called gospel singers) learn to respect copyright? Stealing na stealing, e no get another name. Well, you could call it thievery." This blunt statement has since circulated widely online, igniting discussions about ethical practices in the music industry.
Social Media Reactions
The accusation has sparked varied reactions from social media users. One user, @yomzy_1st, praised Beautiful Nubia for referring to the song as "our song seven life," noting his inclusion of fans and band members. Another, @natiwisky, suggested that all music builds on existing ideas, hinting at possible subconscious influences and advocating for dialogue to resolve the issue.
User @benmoore04 commented on the promotion of the alleged theft, expressing continued support for Beautiful Nubia despite the controversy. These responses highlight the ongoing debate over originality and copyright in creative works.
Context and Industry Implications
This public outcry marks a significant moment in the ongoing conversation about copyright infringement within the Nigerian music industry. It underscores the challenges artists face in protecting their intellectual property, particularly in genres like gospel where inspiration and borrowing can blur lines.
The incident also brings attention to the broader issue of respect for creative rights, urging musicians to acknowledge sources and seek permissions. As the story develops, it may influence future discussions on legal frameworks and ethical standards in Nigerian entertainment.
In related news, Yinka Ayefele recently received a skipping rope as a gift from skit maker Isbae U after appearing on his podcast, a moment that trended online. However, this lighter anecdote contrasts with the serious allegations now surrounding his work.
Beautiful Nubia, known for his contributions to folk and gospel music, continues to advocate for integrity in the industry, calling for greater awareness and adherence to copyright laws to foster a more respectful creative environment.
