Creative sector leaders and talents have increased legal scrutiny over overseas performance contracts as UK legal proceedings involving dancer and creator Poco Lee continue toward a mid-September hearing. The increased scrutiny is a response to the legal challenges faced by some Nigerian creatives working abroad.
The Poco Lee case has highlighted the legal risks associated with overseas performance contracts. The increased scrutiny is a recognition that creatives need to protect themselves legally when working abroad. The move is a positive step towards ensuring that Nigerian creatives are not exploited.
The winners: Nigerian creatives, who will be better protected; and the Nigerian creative sector, which is becoming more professional. The losers: those who exploit creatives; and the Nigerian government, which must support the creative sector.
Bottom Line: Creatives are tightening legal scrutiny on overseas contracts. The Poco Lee case is a wake-up call. The question is whether the increased scrutiny will prevent future legal issues or just create more bureaucracy.