Charles Oputa, also known as Charly Boy, a well-known performer, has expressed his intention to take legal action against Premier Records Limited due to an alleged breach of contractual terms that were established approximately 35 years ago.
In a letter penned by his attorney, Mr. Rockson Igelige, dated June 19, 2023, it was stated that Charly Boy had entered into Artists Recording Contracts with the record label in 1988, 1990, and more recently.
However, he claimed that these contracts have expired, yet Premier Records continues to infringe upon his client’s copyrights regarding the musical works.
The lawyer’s letter demanded that the company relinquish Charly Boy’s master tapes, artworks, promotional materials, and any other pertinent and confidential information within 30 days of receiving the correspondence.
Additionally, they requested that the outstanding royalties owed to their client be paid.
According to Igelige, the affected albums include one recorded in 1990, which features songs such as “Big Bottom,” “Aids,” “Sexy Lady,” “Mama,” and “Nwata Miss.” Another album mentioned is titled “U-Turn” and includes songs like “Akula,” “Sheri,” “Comfort,” “Civilian Barrack,” and “Akula (Instrumental).”
Furthermore, an album called “Reality” contains songs such as “Monkey,” “Family Support,” “No.6 Man,” “Give My Life,” “Lagos Life,” and “Baby Come Back.
“The lawyer argued that the contractual agreements made with the company, formerly known as Polydor Record in 1988, Polygram Records Limited in 1990, and presently Premier Records Limited, had expired due to the passage of time.
He stated that his client’s instructions were to formally request that the company cease any further violation of his copyrights pertaining to the musical works created during the period covered by the expired contracts.
This decision was based on the failure to fulfill the conditions and considerations stipulated in the contracts.
The letter served as a legal notice, warning that any subsequent breaches following its receipt would result in legal action being taken.
Igelige expressed the hope and trust that the company would comply with their client’s reasonable demands.
