Court Grants Injunction In PMAN Leadership Dispute, Affirms Pretty Okafor’s Control

By Emmanuel Daniji
The National Industrial Court in Lagos has delivered a significant ruling in favour of the Performing Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria (PMAN), restraining a rival faction from interfering with the organisation’s assets and leadership pending final adjudication of the matter.
Presided over by Hon. Justice M.N. Esowe, the court granted an interlocutory injunction in Suit No. NICN/LA/48/2025, which prevents Fruitful Mekwunye, George Dureke, Raymond Lasisi and others (1st–13th defendants) from tampering with or taking over key PMAN properties, including the Nigerian Music House, Lekki, and the PMAN Abuja property and Monaco Project in the Federal Capital Territory. The court also ordered that the Registrar of Trade Unions must not recognise the rival group as PMAN’s leadership or alter official records.
The judgement effectively reaffirmed PMAN’s leadership under President Pretty Okafor and was described by the association as “a victory for truth, order, and the rule of law.” In a statement, Acting General Secretary Elizabeth Khara Gabriel, Esq., said the decision has restored confidence within PMAN and its members.
The dispute had centred around internal elections, alleged attempts to hijack PMAN’s asset base, and claims of legitimacy made by parallel leadership. The court’s intervention underscores the institution’s determination to uphold constitutional process and protect the rights of its members.
With the injunction now in place, PMAN under Okafor’s presidency is expected to proceed with its national programmes, including property development plans, while the matter is finally resolved in court. The music industry and stakeholders are watching closely, given PMAN’s role in regulating musicians’ welfare and professional standards in Nigeria.