The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), in collaboration with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ondo State Command, has arrested several bookshop owners and distributors for allegedly selling pirated books to unsuspecting members of the public.
The raid, which was carried out in Akure, Ondo, and Ado Ekiti, was conducted under Section 44(2) of the Copyright Act, which criminalizes the sale, distribution, or possession (for trade or business purposes) of infringing copies of copyrighted works.
Speaking to journalists, Mrs. Oke Oluropo, NCC State Coordinator for Oyo, Osun, Ondo, Ogun, and Ekiti States, praised the NSCDC for providing professional security support during the operation. She disclosed that the Commission has commenced inspections of schools and other outlets where books and other copyright materials are sold.
In his remarks, NSCDC State Commandant, Oluyemi Ibiloye, reiterated the agency’s commitment to partnerships aimed at protecting intellectual property and creative industries. He called for stronger collaboration to “shut the door against criminal elements exploiting the system.”
Parents, guardians, and members of the public have been urged to remain vigilant and report suspected cases of piracy or illegal distribution of books to the authorities.
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