As the new academic session begins, the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has vowed to deal with sellers and printers of pirated books in the country.

The commission, which expressed worry over the rise in the printing, distribution, and sale of pirated books in recent times, said it will not hesitate to invoke the relevant laws against anyone caught dealing in pirated books.

The commission, in a statement on Sunday, said following recent inspections and anti-piracy operations across the country, it has noticed disturbing trends in the distribution of pirated books through schools, online sales outlets, and traditional bookstores.

It noted that the Commission has also noticed a rise in the local printing of pirated books and the illicit activities of importers, sales representatives, and road transporters who deal in pirated books.

According to the NCC, it is an offense under the Copyright Act, 2022 to reproduce, import, sell, distribute, or be in possession of infringing copies of a copyrighted work. It is also an offense to aid and abet criminal copyright infringement.

It added, “Punishments under the Act are now significantly stiffer with no upper limit to the amount of fine or term of imprisonment that may be imposed.”

The statement said copyright officers are vested with the powers and privileges of Police Officers and may, without a warrant, enter any premises (including schools and stores) used for infringing activities.

“They may also effect the arrest of persons and seal up premises connected with piracy. Convicted offenders may forfeit infringing materials and properties which are found to be proceeds of a copyright offense,” the agency said.

It said it is particularly disturbing that some schools source books from well-known piracy hotspots and printers for sale to their students, adding that the Commission will henceforth treat such schools as booksellers and hold them accountable for any pirated books found in their premises or in the possession of their students.

“Schools are advised to patronise publishers directly or purchase from accredited sales representatives or reputable bookstores.

“They should, in all cases, exercise extreme caution and due diligence in their dealings and always insist on signed invoices from suppliers,” the Commission advised.

It said that the advisory serves as a notice to publishers, printers, importers, sales representatives, booksellers, online selling platforms, transporters, and owners of premises where books are printed or stored, as well as school proprietors and heads of schools who may be involved or aiding book piracy.

It noted that they should be extra vigilant and take adequate precautions to avoid complicity in book piracy.

The statement read, “The Commission acknowledges its collaboration with enforcement and security agencies, including the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigeria Police, Nigeria Customs Service, and the Department of State Services.

“We call on parents, guardians, right owners, and the public to report any suspected cases of piracy to any of these agencies or to the Commission’s offices.”