The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ondo State Command has arrested bookshop owners selling pirated books to unsuspecting members of the public.
The coordinated operation that took place in Akure, Ondo, and Ado Ekiti was carried out in line with section 44(2) of the Copyright Act, which makes it an offence punishable by imprisonment and fine for any person to sell any infringing copy of a Copyright work; distribute for the purpose of trade or business any infringing copy of a Copyright work; or be in possession, other than for private or domestic use, any infringing copy of a Copyright work.
While speaking to journalists, Mrs Oke Oluropo, the State Coordinator covering Oyo, Osun, Ondo, Ogun, and Ekiti, commended the NSCDC for it’s professional security coverage during the anti-piracy operation.
She said the operation was a huge success because of the professionalism of the men of the NSCDC, Ondo Command. ‘ This exercise is a statutory function. The Commission has commenced inspection of schools and other outlets where Copyright works are being distributed or sold’.
In his address, Commandant Oluyemi Ibiloye, the State Commandant, said the command remains committed to partnerships that secure both lives and livelihoods.
‘The fight against piracy requires stronger collaboration. Together, we can protect intellectual property rights, safeguard creative industries, and shut the door against criminal elements exploiting the system”.
With this, parents, guardians and the general public are advised to be vigilant and report any suspected case of piracy or distribution of pirated books to the appropriate authority.
For any inquiries, please contact:
08075534103
Instagram: nscdc_ondo
Facebook: NSCDC Ondo state command
email: cdcomm_ondo@nscdc.gov.ng
DSC Daniel Aidamenbor fwip
Public Relations Officer
NSCDC Ondo State Command
