Nigerian Trademark Tribunal Rules in Favor of GCM Giant Creative Media

The Nigerian Trademark Tribunal recently made a significant ruling on July 18, 2024, regarding the ownership of the trademarks for the hit Netflix series, Shanty Town. The tribunal has declared that Chi Chi Nworah and her company, GCM Giant Creative Media Limited, are the rightful owners of the trademarks Shanty Town and Scar.

This decision comes after a legal battle earlier this year between Nollywood actress Ini Edo and producer Nworah over the rights to Shanty Town, a popular series that follows the lives of young women facing grim circumstances.

The tribunal dismissed claims made by Edo’s legal team and Minini Empire Productions Limited, ultimately supporting Nworah’s ownership of the trademarks. This outcome was crucial, as it was tied to the much-anticipated second season of Shanty Town, leaving fans uncertain about its future.

In a further boost for Nworah, the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) issued a ruling on July 24, 2024, reaffirming the validity of the copyright certificates issued to her. The NCC also dismissed Edo’s petition, confirming Nworah’s legal rights over the series.

Olisa Agbakoba, who is Nworah’s lawyer and former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, emphasized the importance of this legal victory, stating it highlights the need to protect creative works and ensure that artists receive fair compensation for their contributions.

Shanty Town, directed by Dimeji Ajibola, was released on January 20, 2023, and quickly garnered attention for its gripping plot and stellar cast, which includes names like Chidi Mokeme, Richard Mofe-Damijo, and Nancy Isime.