The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has struck a major blow against piracy, seizing three shipping containers filled with 3,000 cartons of pirated books. The estimated value of the haul is over N300 million.
Dr. John Asein, Director-General of the NCC, announced the seizure in a press statement. He revealed that the operation, conducted at the Onne Port in Rivers State, involved collaboration with enforcement partners – the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Department of State Services (DSS).
Shifting Tactics by Pirates
The NCC highlighted a concerning shift in piracy tactics. Previously, the commission primarily dealt with low-quality, locally-produced pirated books. However, Dr. Asein noted a surge in high-quality pirated imports, particularly from Asia, which closely resemble the originals.
These sophisticated counterfeiters actively target Nigerian businesses, often sharing pirated book lists through illicit networks. In some cases, they even resort to falsifying documentation to bypass enforcement agencies.
Combating Piracy with New Measures
The NCC is taking proactive steps to counter these evolving tactics. Dr. Asein acknowledged the government’s focus on ease of doing business but emphasized collaboration with Customs to introduce an online pre-import certification scheme. This initiative aims to identify and prevent the import of pirated books and other copyright-infringing materials.
A Call to Action
The NCC issued a stern warning to importers, clearing agents, booksellers, and warehouse owners. They are urged to conduct thorough due diligence in book-related transactions and ensure proper documentation. The commission emphasizes that anyone found with pirated books will be held accountable, presumed to be complicit in the crime.
Stronger Legal Framework and Collaboration
Dr. Asein expressed optimism due to Nigeria’s recently strengthened copyright statute. The revised law includes harsher penalties for copyright infringements, empowering the NCC to seal premises, seize proceeds of crime, and take swift action against suspected materials. Additionally, the new Nigeria Customs Service Act (2023) grants the NCS the authority to detain, arrest, and seize copyright-infringing materials.
The NCC Director-General expressed gratitude to the Customs, DSS, and other stakeholders whose collaboration facilitated the successful seizure. He emphasized this operation sends a clear message to those involved in copyright piracy: the government is committed to fighting this crime across all platforms.
Right Owners Play a Crucial Role
The NCC is urging rights holders to adopt proactive business solutions. This includes implementing measures that assist consumers and enforcement agencies in identifying pirated materials. Rights owners are also encouraged to utilize border measure provisions and share relevant intelligence with the commission.
The Fate of the Seized Books
The NCC’s Director of Legal, Emeka Ogbonna, clarified the next steps regarding the seized books. While the main importers remain at large, the books were confiscated during the clearing process through their agents. Law enforcement is working to apprehend the primary suspects for prosecution. Ultimately, the court will decide whether the seized books are destroyed or returned to the rightful copyright holders.
