Traders at Sabo Market in Sagamu, Ogun State, on Thursday reportedly attacked officials of the Nigerian Copyright Commission during an anti-piracy operation.
The enforcement team, led by the Oyo State Coordinator of the NCC, Mrs. Oluropo Oke, had raided two bookshops inside the market, seized bags of pirated books, and sealed the shops.
Trouble began when traders, allegedly mobilised by the husband of one of the arrested booksellers, blocked the NCC convoy and attempted to prevent them from leaving.
The mob reportedly threatened to burn the commission’s operational vehicles, including one belonging to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Ogun State Command, and attacked NSCDC operatives deployed to provide security.
Speaking on the incident, Oke said the NCC officials were carrying out their constitutional duties when they were violently confronted.
“We had sealed shops and confiscated pirated books when the husband of one of the shop owners organised youths to attack us and even the security operatives. They threatened to kill us, burn our vehicles, and use charms on us,” she said.
Oke condemned the attack, describing it as an attempt to intimidate government agencies from carrying out their lawful duties.
“Piracy is an act of economic sabotage punishable by at least five years’ imprisonment. It kills creativity, discourages innovation, and fuels unemployment. The commission, under the leadership of our Director-General, Dr. John Asein, will not be deterred,” she added.
She assured that all those involved in the attack would face prosecution, stressing that Nigeria is a country governed by law.
Meanwhile, an NCC operation at another bookshop opposite the palace of the Akarigbo of Sagamu was said to have been successful, with pirated materials confiscated and the shop sealed.
Oke urged Nigerians to support the fight against piracy, noting its damaging effects on the economy and job creation.
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