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GHANA: In a recent development within the Ghanaian gospel music industry, OFM Computer World Europe, a subsidiary of Multi Debrich Group Ltd Ghana, has initiated legal proceedings against renowned gospel artist Esther Smith.
The company alleges that Esther Smith owes over $240,000, representing a 40% share of revenues from digital stores, as stipulated in their contractual agreement. Additionally, the percentage from YouTube earnings is yet to be calculated.
Background of the Dispute
On July 12, 2020, OFM Computer World, under the leadership of Dr. Debrich Jeremiah Acheampong, established the YouTube channel EstherSmithMusic to promote Esther Smith’s gospel music career. This initiative was built upon the domain esthersmith.org, which remains under the company’s control. A legally binding agreement, signed by Smith on June 16, 2020, recognized OFM Computer World as the rightful creator and manager of the channel, entrusting them with its technical and promotional management.
However, without prior consultation or consent, Smith unilaterally altered the channel’s password and recovery email, effectively excluding the original creators and managers. This action has raised significant legal and ethical concerns regarding contractual obligations and digital rights.
Legal Proceedings and YouTube Intervention
In response to the unauthorized takeover, OFM Computer World has formally petitioned YouTube Support to review the channel’s ownership. The company has provided:
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The original signed agreement between OFM Computer World and Esther Smith.
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A copy of Smith’s German National ID for identity verification.
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Official proof of the channel’s creation under the Gmail username esthersmithorg, linked to the domain esthersmith.org.
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Legal documentation from the Dansoman Court in Accra, confirming the case is under judicial review.
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Evidence of OFM Computer World’s active management of the channel prior to the unauthorized access change.
The company has also escalated the matter to Google’s Legal Support Team, seeking intervention to restore rightful ownership and ensure adherence to digital media agreements.
Implications for Digital Content Ownership in the Music Industry
This case underscores critical issues surrounding digital content ownership and management rights in the entertainment industry. Many artists rely on digital platforms such as YouTube for revenue generation, promotions, and audience engagement. However, disputes over ownership can arise when clear contractual agreements are not honored.
Dr. Debrich Jeremiah Acheampong, CEO of OFM Computer World Europe and Multi Debrich Group Ltd Ghana, emphasized the importance of protecting digital assets and intellectual property:
“Digital content management is a serious business. Companies invest time, expertise, and financial resources into building online platforms for artists. Unauthorized takeovers not only violate agreements but also undermine trust in the industry. This case is about ensuring that contractual obligations are honored and digital rights are protected.”
Call for Industry-Wide Regulations
OFM Computer World is urging stakeholders in the music and entertainment industry to establish clearer regulations governing digital content ownership and management. The company calls on:
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Music labels and managers to enforce stricter agreements regarding online platforms.
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Artists to honor contractual obligations and seek proper legal consultation before making unauthorized changes.
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Tech companies like YouTube and Google to enhance their dispute resolution mechanisms to prevent digital hijacking cases.
Looking Ahead
As the legal case proceeds, OFM Computer World remains committed to reclaiming the EstherSmithMusic channel and ensuring justice is served. The company also advises businesses and artists to establish strong digital content policies to prevent similar disputes. OFM Computer World is confident that justice will prevail and that YouTube will take appropriate action to restore rightful ownership of the channel.
This ongoing dispute serves as a pivotal moment for the African entertainment industry, highlighting the necessity for clear agreements and the protection of digital rights in an increasingly digital world.
@ghanaregions Esther Smith is going to pŕisøn. #EstherSmithGhana #Ghana #GhanaRegions #foryou #MultiDebrichGroup #EstherSmithGh ♬ original sound – Ghana Regions
Source: GhanaRegions.com