By Mercy Peter
The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has commenced the prosecution of Netnaija Media Enterprises and its representative, Mr. Emmanuel Analike, over alleged online copyright infringement involving the unauthorised reproduction and distribution of music and audiovisual works belonging to Nigerian and foreign copyright owners.
The case, filed on March 2, 2025, at the Federal High Court under Charge No. FHC/ABJ/CR/422/25, comprises four counts of alleged copyright offences under the Copyright Act 2022.
According to the Commission, the charges include the alleged production and possession of 1,458 infringing copies of music and audiovisual works, unauthorised online communication of the works to the public, and possession of equipment allegedly intended for producing infringing copies.
The alleged offences reportedly occurred between 2023 and July 2025, prompting investigations by the Commission following repeated complaints from local and international copyright owners over the activities of the Netnaija website.
The complaints led to an investigation by the NCC and the subsequent arrest of the defendant as the Commission moved to address the alleged infringement of copyright protected works.
At the court proceedings on October 12, 2026, the Commission called its first witness, the investigating officer, who began giving testimony in support of the prosecution’s case.
The witness’s appearance marked the commencement of the Commission’s presentation of evidence in the trial, which concerns allegations of unauthorised online distribution and possession of copyrighted content.
However, proceedings followed arguments surrounding a Notice of Preliminary Objection filed by the defendant’s counsel, Mr. Emmanuel Analike, on October 9, 2026.
The court ruled that the objection was not ripe for hearing and consequently directed the Commission to proceed with the presentation of its case.
The ruling allowed the prosecution to begin leading evidence through its investigating officer, while the matter remains before the court for further proceedings.
The trial has been adjourned until November 23, 2026, for continuation of proceedings.
The case is among the Commission’s ongoing enforcement actions aimed at addressing suspected copyright violations in the digital environment, particularly the unauthorised reproduction and dissemination of creative works through online platforms.
Online copyright infringement remains a concern for creators, producers, performers and other rights holders whose works may be reproduced or distributed without the necessary authorisation. Such activities can undermine the ability of copyright owners to control the use of their works and derive economic benefits from them.
The NCC’s action underscores the enforcement role of the Commission in investigating suspected copyright offences and bringing cases before the courts for determination in accordance with the law.
The Commission has maintained that its efforts are directed at protecting the rights of copyright owners and ensuring that allegations of copyright infringement are addressed through established legal procedures.
The prosecution was represented in court by the Head of the NCC Legal Department and prosecuting counsel, Ms. Gladys Isaac-Ojo, alongside Chief Copyright Officer, Legal, Mrs. Joy Ogbonna.
The case will resume on November 23, 2026, when proceedings are expected to continue.
