Nigerian Copyright Commission has called on publishers, printers and other relevant stakeholders to be extra vigilant and take adequate precautions to avoid pirated books.
The Director-General of NCC, Dr John Asein, in a statement in Abuja on Sunday, noted that the Commission had noticed a rise in the local printing of pirated books.
According to him, NCC has also noticed a rise in the illicit activities of sales representatives and road transporters who facilitate the bulk movement of pirated books.
“Following recent inspections and anti-piracy operations across the country, the NCC 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 sales representatives and road transporters who facilitate the bulk movement of pirated books.
“It is an offence under the Copyright Act, 2022 to reproduce, 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,” NCC boss said.
According to him, copyright officers are vested with the powers and privileges of police officers and may, without warrant enter any premises (including schools and stores) which are being used for any infringing activity.
“They may also effect arrests of persons and seal up premises connected with piracy. Convicted offenders may forfeit infringing materials and assets found to be proceeds from the crime of piracy.
“This press statement serves as notice to publishers, printers, importers, sales representatives, booksellers, owners of online sales 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 all advised to be extra vigilant and to take adequate precautions to avoid book piracy.
“It is particularly worrying that schools now source books from well-known piracy hotspots and printers for sale to students.”
The director-general said the commission would henceforth treat such schools as booksellers and hold them accountable for any pirated books found in their premises or in the possession of their students.
According to him, schools are advised to patronise publishers directly or purchase from accredited sales representatives or reputable bookstores.
“They should, in all cases, exercise maximum caution and due diligence in their dealings and demand signed invoices with the supplier’s details clearly shown.”
The NCC boss commended the officers and men of other enforcement and security agencies, especially the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigeria Police, Nigeria Customs Service and the Department of State Services for supporting the fight against piracy.
According to him, the commission solicits the support of everyone in the fight against book piracy.
“We call on parents, guardians, right owners and the public to report any suspected cases of piracy to the Commission via email at info@copyright.gov.ng or by phone on 090 1900 1400.” (NAN).
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