A legal storm is brewing in Nollywood as two powerhouse figures, Ini Edo and Chineye Nworah, find themselves embroiled in a dispute over the ownership rights of the hit 2023 limited series ‘Shanty Town’ on Netflix.
Ini Edo, the acclaimed actress and executive producer, and Chineye Nworah, also an Executive Producer and Producer of the award-winning, are both claiming ownership of the intellectual property, sparking a heated courtroom showdown.
‘Shanty Town’ garnered critical acclaim for its gripping storytelling and powerful performances, shining a spotlight on the harsh realities of life in Nigeria’s urban slums. The series has resonated with audiences worldwide, earning accolades for its authentic portrayal of social issues.
Netflix team in Africa started discussions last year with Chineye Nworah and Giant Creative Media for a second season of Shanty Town because of the success of the first instalment, however on January 15, 2024, Ini Edo sent a legal warning to Netflix, asking them to stop talking to Nworah and Giant Creative Media about making another season.
In a statement, Ini Edo’s legal team asserted, that:
- Nworah should not be the only one in talks about continuing the series because he does not own it by himself.
- The working relationship between Edo, Nworah, and another partner, Joy Odiete, began with an agreement on December 13, 2019. This agreement was to produce five movies over ten years.
- In June 2021, a new deal was made involving Minini Empire Productions, Giant Creative Media (GCM), Nevada Bridge TV, and Champion One Entertainment. They all signed a “Shanty Town Investment Agreement.”
- According to this investment agreement, the intellectual property (IP) rights are owned by both Minini Empire Productions and GCM. Additionally, they are entitled to 5% of the total profits from the project.
While Chineye Nworah’s issues a press statement, highlighting that she is the sole initiator and sole copyright holder of Shanty Town, and that the media should cease spreading false claims.
According to the release issued on February 22, 2024, GCM implored the audience to ignore Edo’s claim of being the owner of the intellectual property in the Netflix original movie. Further, stating that Nworah is the sole initiator and sole copyright holder of Shanty Town.
As the legal battle unfolds, one is left to wonder, about the future of ‘Shanty Town Season 2’ and the impact this dispute will have on the project. With both sides digging in their heels, only time will tell who will emerge victorious in this clash of titans.
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