The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has advised proprietors and heads of schools to guard against the sale and use of pirated books in their schools.
The advice is coming on the heels of alleged widespread activities of pirates who go about selling pirated books to unsuspecting members of the public through schools.
In a press statement issued by the Director-General of NCC, John O. Asein, the commission said it is a criminal offence 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.
“Copyright Inspectors of the Nigerian Copyright Commission are empowered by law to enter, inspect and examine at any reasonable time, any building or premises [including schools] that they suspect is being used for any infringing activity under the Copyright Act.
“The Commission is therefore by this Notice advising all proprietors of schools, principals, headmasters and heads of schools, to ensure that books supplied for use of their students and pupils are legitimate copies sourced from the publishers or authorized dealers of such books.
“Parents, guardians and the general public are advised to be vigilant and to report any suspected cases of piracy or distribution of pirated books to any of the Commission’s offices across the country or the nearest police station. Reports may also be lodged through the Commission’s website (www.copyright.gov.ng) or with the Nigerian Publishers Association (www.nigerianpublishers.com).
“Copyright Inspectors of the Nigerian Copyright Commission are empowered by law to enter, inspect and examine at any reasonable time, any building or premises [including schools] that they suspect is being used for any infringing activity under the Copyright Act.
“In exercise of its statutory functions, the Commission has commenced inspection of schools and other outlets where copyright works are being distributed or sold. Proprietors, principals, headmasters, and heads of schools whose schools are found to be distributing or facilitating the distribution of pirated books would be held criminally liable in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright Act.
“The Commission is therefore by this Notice advising all proprietors of schools, principals, headmasters and heads of schools, to ensure that books supplied for use of their students and pupils are legitimate copies sourced from the publishers or authorized dealers of such books.
“Parents, guardians and the general public are advised to be vigilant and to report any suspected cases of piracy or distribution of pirated books to any of the Commission’s offices across the country or the nearest police station.”