The Nigerian Cipyright Commission has warned schools, bookstores, transporters and sales representatives of consequences of dealing in pirated books.
This is coming as the Commission expressed disturbing trends in distribution of pirated books.
NCC in a statement on Sunday said significant stiffer punishment with no upper
limit to the amount of fine or term of imprisonment that may be imposed on culprits.
The statement which was signed by the Director General of the Commission, Dr John Asein reads: “Following recent inspection and anti-piracy operations across the country, the Nigerian
Copyright Commission has noticed disturbing trends in the distribution of pirated books
through schools,online sales outlets and traditional book stores.
“The Commission has also
noticed a rise in the local printing of pirated books and the illicit activities of importers, sales
representatives and road transporters who deal in pirated books.
“It is an offence under the Copyright Act, 2022 to reproduce, import, sell, distribute or be in
possession of infringing copies of a copyright work. It is also an offence to aid and abet criminal
copyright infringement.
“Punishments under the Act are now significantly stiffer with no upper
limit to the amount of fine or term of imprisonment that may be imposed. Copyright Officers
are vested with the powers and privileges of Police Officersand may, without warrant, enter
any premises (including schoolsand stores) used for infringing activities.
” They may also effect the arrest of persons and seal up premises connected with piracy. Convicted offenders may forfeit infringing materials and propertes which are found to be proceeds of a copyright
offence may be forfeited.
“It is particularly disturbing that some schools source books from well-known piracy hotspots
and printers for sale to their students. The Commission will henceforth treat such schools as
booksellersand hold them accountable for any pirated books found in their premises or in the
possession of their students. Schools are advised to patronize publishers directly or purchase
from accredited sales representatives or reputable bookstores.They should, in all cases,
exercise extreme caution and due diligence in their dealings and always insist on signed
invoices from suppliers.
“This Advisory serves as notice to publishers, printers, importers, sales representatives,
booksellers, online selling platforms, transporters, owners of premises where books are
printed or stored, school proprietors and heads of schools who may be involved or aiding book
piracy.
“They are advised to be extra vigilant and to take adequate precautions to avoid
complicity in book piracy.
“Booksellers should also exercise due diligence in their dealings with
distributors and book importers.
“The Commission acknowledges its collaboration with enforcement and security agencies,
including the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigeria Police, Nigeria Customs Service
and the Department of State Services. We call on parents, guardians, right owners and the public to report any suspected cases of piracy to any of theseagencies or to the Commission’s
officesor send email to info@copyright.gov.ngor call 09019001400; 09019001401.
