NCC confiscated pirated works worth more than N400 million in 7 months – AGF Fagbemi 

Fagbemi made this disclosure during a stakeholder engagement event on access to criminal justice held at the Federal Ministry of Justice, Abuja, and attended by Naijaonpoint.

He stated that the government is improving access to legal remedies for copyright infringement through enhanced investigations, interventions, seizures, and prosecutions carried out by the NCC.

The AGF noted that the Commission conducted 120 monitoring, documentation, and inspection visits to schools, markets, printing presses, and other copyright flashpoints during the period under review.

“In the period under review, the Commission also developed and deployed Copyright Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Rules and established a Copyright Mediation Centre to promote the use of ADR mechanisms for resolving copyright disputes,” he added.

The AGF assured that the federal government would allocate $50 million in recovered assets toward providing electricity access to 17.5 million Nigerians.

“It is hoped that we can conclude these negotiations soon to ensure that more of our funds hidden in various jurisdictions are repatriated to Nigeria,” he said.

In April 2024, the NCC made a significant seizure, intercepting three shipping containers carrying 3,000 cartons of pirated books at Onne Port, Rivers State, valued at approximately N300 million.

Dr. John Asein, the Director-General of the Commission, disclosed this development in a public statement.

Asein issued a stern warning to importers, clearing agents, booksellers, and warehouse owners, urging them to exercise due diligence and ensure proper documentation. He emphasized the Commission’s resolve to hold accountable any individuals found in possession of pirated materials, reaffirming its strengthened enforcement efforts against copyright piracy.