Veteran Nigerian singer Segun Akinlolu, popularly known as Beautiful Nubia, has publicly accused fellow gospel musicians Yinka Ayefele and rising act BBO of allegedly copying the melody of his original track, Seven Lifes.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Beautiful Nubia claimed that Ayefele’s 2012 song “My Faith in God (Igbagbo Ireti)”and BBO’s recent release “Amin” both drew their melodies from his work without permission.
“There was Yinka Ayefele with ‘My Faith in God (Igbagbo Ireti)’ in 2012 and now someone called BBO with ‘Amin’ this year. Both stole their melodies from our original song ‘Seven Lifes,’” he wrote.
Questioning what he described as a recurring issue in the industry, the singer added:
“When will Nigerians, especially the so-called gospel musicians, learn to respect copyright?”
Beautiful Nubia, widely celebrated for his unique sound and storytelling rooted in culture and social themes, raised broader concerns about copyright infringement and the need for originality within Nigeria’s gospel music sector.
His remarks have sparked discussions among music fans, reopening debates on intellectual property rights, ethical standards, and creative integrity in the Nigerian music industry.
The singer also called on fellow artistes to be mindful of copyright laws and ensure their works do not infringe on the intellectual property of others.
As of this report, neither Yinka Ayefele nor BBO has publicly responded to the allegations.
