The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has scored a major victory in the fight against piracy, intercepting three shipping containers packed with 3000 cartons of pirated books at Onne Port, Rivers State. Valued at approximately N300 million, this seizure marks a significant blow to intellectual property theft in the country.
Dr. John Asein, Director-General of the NCC, announced this breakthrough in a press statement, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the impact of piracy on the nation’s publishing industry.
The intercepted containers contained pirated books from renowned Nigerian publishers such as Africana First, Bounty Press, Evans, Learn Africa, Macmillan, Metropolitan, and University Press Plc. This haul highlights the persistent threat posed by piracy to the integrity of the publishing sector.
Asein shed light on the evolving tactics employed by pirates, citing a notable increase in the importation of pirated books from Asia. He lamented the audacity of these criminals, who, acting as agents of foreign printers, actively seek out opportunities within Nigeria to peddle counterfeit goods.
To address these challenges, Asein stressed the necessity of stronger collaboration between the NCC and enforcement agencies like the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Department of State Services (DSS). He outlined the commission’s commitment to implementing stringent measures, including an online pre-import certification scheme, to stem the influx of pirated materials into the country.
Importers, clearing agents, booksellers, and warehouse owners were cautioned to exercise due diligence and comply with proper documentation procedures. Asein warned that individuals caught with pirated books would face legal consequences, affirming the NCC’s determination to clamp down on copyright piracy through intensified enforcement efforts.
In response to inquiries about the seized books’ fate, Emeka Ogbonna, NCC Director Legal, disclosed that the primary suspects behind the illicit importation remained at large. Nevertheless, the commission is actively collaborating with security agencies to apprehend the culprits and commence legal proceedings. The ultimate fate of the seized materials, whether through destruction or return to legitimate owners, will be determined by the court upon the conclusion of the trial.
