The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has sounded the alarm on the rising distribution of pirated books across the country. Director-General Dr. John Asein revealed that inspections have uncovered schools, online platforms, and traditional bookstores involved in selling counterfeit materials.
Asein expressed concerns about the local printing of pirated books and the role of importers and transporters in these activities. “Following recent inspections 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 bookstores,” he stated.
Under the Copyright Act of 2022, reproducing, importing, selling, or distributing infringing works is punishable by hefty fines and imprisonment, with no upper limits ¹ ². The NCC has empowered copyright officers to enter premises without a warrant and arrest individuals involved in piracy.
Asein emphasized the commission’s commitment to combating copyright infringement, particularly in schools, urging them to purchase books directly from accredited publishers or reputable distributors.
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