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The Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, has adjourned proceedings once again in a high-profile legal battle involving Aristokrat Records, its founder Piriye Isokrari, and the controversial transfer of Grammy-winning artist Burna Boy’s early music catalogue. The next hearing is now slated for April 20, 2026, following yet another delay caused by the absence of Aristokrat’s chief executive.
The case was initiated by 960 Music Group, a minority investor in Aristokrat Music, over alleged financial improprieties connected to the sale of Burna Boy’s early recordings and associated intellectual property. According to court documents, the disputed transfer involved a transaction between May and June 2024, reportedly valued at several million dollars, which saw the catalogue move from Aristokrat Music to Spaceship Music, Burna Boy’s current label.
Spaceship Music is owned by Burna Boy and managed by his mother and longtime manager, Bose Ogulu. Despite their oversight, 960 Music Group, which holds a 40 percent stake in Aristokrat Music, alleged that it was neither consulted nor informed prior to the completion of the deal. The minority investor claims that this lack of transparency violated its rights, prompting legal action to challenge the sale and potentially reverse the transaction.
Court filings further suggest that the dispute has escalated beyond civil litigation. The Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) reportedly launched an inquiry into Isokrari’s handling of the sale proceeds. Investigators alleged that the Aristokrat CEO diverted funds away from official company accounts, a move that deprived 960 Music Group of its entitled share. The criminal dimension adds another layer of complexity to the already contentious matter, raising questions about corporate governance and financial accountability within the record label.
The case has experienced a series of procedural setbacks since its initial mention in December 2025. It was previously adjourned to February 10, 2026, after repeated absences by the defence team, which sources say have contributed to growing frustration among investors and stakeholders. On Wednesday, the matter suffered another delay after Isokrari failed to appear in court once more, prompting the judge to reschedule the hearing for April 20, 2026. Legal analysts note that these delays could prolong the resolution of what has become a significant dispute in Nigeria’s music industry.
Observers say the case underscores the importance of transparency and clear communication in high-value transactions within the entertainment sector. With Burna Boy’s early catalogue considered a lucrative asset, both parties face intense scrutiny from investors, industry watchers, and the public.
The protracted litigation has also drawn attention to minority shareholders’ rights, with 960 Music Group maintaining that its interests have been sidelined in the sale process. The case is expected to set important precedents for how music rights and intellectual property transactions are handled in Nigeria, particularly regarding investor consent and oversight.
As it stands, the next hearing on April 20, 2026, will be closely watched by music industry stakeholders, legal experts, and fans alike. Many are keen to see whether Aristokrat’s absence will continue to delay proceedings or if the court will take steps to enforce compliance and move the case toward resolution.
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