The Performing Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria has formally petitioned Nigeria’s Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) over what it describes as an alleged hijack of the country’s copyright levy collection process by the Rights Enforcement and Licensing Practitioners Initiative.

In the petition submitted to federal authorities, PMAN accused RELPI of unlawfully positioning itself within the administration and distribution framework of the Copy Levy a compensation system designed to ensure that musicians, producers, and other rights holders receive royalties from devices capable of storing or reproducing copyrighted content.

PMAN leadership argued that the process, which directly affects the earnings of Nigerian creatives, must remain transparent and regulated under legally recognised collective management structures. The association expressed concern that any unauthorised control over levy collection could deny artists fair compensation and undermine confidence in Nigeria’s intellectual property ecosystem.

The dispute follows recent developments involving payments linked to the levy scheme, which have sparked disagreement among industry stakeholders over legitimacy, regulatory approval, and beneficiary representation. PMAN is now calling on the AGF to investigate the matter, clarify operational authority, and ensure that proceeds from the levy are distributed equitably to rightful copyright owners.

Industry observers say the outcome of the petition could significantly shape how copyright revenues are managed in Nigeria’s music sector, particularly at a time when conversations around artist rights, royalties, and creative ownership continue to gain urgency across the industry.