Entertainment lawyer Rockson Igelige is dead

Rockson Igelige, a highly respected Nigerian lawyer specializing in entertainment and intellectual property law, has passed away at the age of 55. The news of his death was shared on Friday by filmmaker Zeb Ejiro and politician and human rights activist Omoyele Sowore through separate Facebook posts.

Both Ejiro and Sowore expressed deep sorrow over Igelige's death, describing him as a "great friend" and a "fantastic lawyer." Ejiro lamented the loss, stating, "We have lost the best IP Lawyer in Africa. The great Isoko Nation just lost a legal luminary." Sowore remembered Igelige as a "courageous and compassionate man whose impact will not be forgotten by those privileged to know him."

Until his death, Igelige maintained a close relationship with the entertainment desk of PREMIUM TIMES, frequently offering insights and clarifications on industry-related legal matters. He was instrumental in shedding light on significant intellectual property disputes within Nigeria's vibrant entertainment sector. His expertise extended to copyright law, including notable cases involving skit maker Brain Jotter and the use of veteran singer Mike Ejeagha's music, as well as intellectual property issues concerning prominent Nollywood figures.

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My brother, Rockson Igelige, why? This hit me hard! I have lost a brother and a dear friend. We have lost the best IP Lawyer in Africa. “The great Isoko Nation just lost a legal luminary. How did this happen? I am tired. Shocked!

Igelige also represented filmmaker Zeb Ejiro in a legal dispute over the name "Domitilla" and provided commentary on other high-profile cases, such as the dispute between VeryDarkMan and Blord regarding the use of the word "Ratel." He often educated emerging artists on crucial legal precautions, particularly concerning contracts, ownership, and intellectual property rights when dealing with record labels.

Beyond his legal practice, Igelige founded the Friends of the Creator (Artistic) Foundation, an organization dedicated to advancing and safeguarding the rights of artists and other creative professionals. Born and raised in Oleh, Delta State, his early education was at Odoro Primary School and Emore Grammar School. The Igelige family had not released an official statement regarding the cause of his death at the time of reporting.

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So sad. A great friend of mine, a fantastic lawyer, and simply a great human being has passed away. The death of Rockson Igelige ‘Rocky’ is a truly painful loss. “He was a man of courage and compassion whose impact will not be forgotten by those privileged to know him. May Rockson Igelige rest in power!