The Nigerian Trademark Registry (NTR) and the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) have both rejected actress Ini Edo’s petition regarding the ownership rights of the popular Netflix series, Shanty Town.
These bodies responsible for regulating trademarks and copyright in Nigeria ruled against her claims.
The rulings favour Ms. Chichi Nworah, the filmmaker behind the series.
Indeed, the legal dispute between Ini Edo and Ms. Chinenye Nworah began shortly after the release of Shanty Town in January 2023.
Ini Edo, alongside her production company, Minini Empire Productions Limited (MEP), sought ownership of the trademarks “Shanty Town” and “Scar,” as well as the copyrights associated with the series.
However, the Nigerian Trademark Registry rejected Ini Edo and MEP’s petition regarding the trademarks “SCAR” (NG/TM/O/2023/121745) and “SHANTY TOWN.”
Similarly, the Nigerian Copyright Commission upheld the validity of the copyrights in question.
Also, they confirm Ms. Nworah’s rightful ownership of these intellectual properties.
The ruling from the NCC stated: “The NCC found no legal grounds for the cancellation and upheld the validity of the certificates, confirming Mrs. Nworah’s rightful ownership of these copyrights”.
The legal team at Olisa Agbakoba Legal (OAL), representing Ms. Nworah, highlighted that this case demonstrates their commitment to protecting intellectual property rights.
Furthermore, they emphasised the importance of defending the creative rights of individuals and companies in Nigeria.
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Also, this decision highlights the importance of legal protection for creative works in the face of intellectual property disputes.
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