The Nigerian Publishers Association (NPA) has condemned the attack and intimidation of the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC)-led anti-piracy enforcement team which conducted a raid against pirated books at Sabo Market, Sagamu, Ogun State on September 25.
During the exercise, a group of individuals mobilised and prevented officers from completing their lawful duties, placing personnel and security operatives at risk.
The NPA in a statement said the act was a direct assault on the fight against book piracy and the rule of law, and viewed such resistance not only as an attack on enforcement agencies, but also on the entire creative industry whose livelihoods depend on respect for intellectual property.
“Book piracy robs authors, publishers, and creative professionals of their rightful earnings, undermines the economy, and diminishes the quality of educational and cultural resources available to society.
Attempts to shield piracy through violence will not be tolerated,” it said, affirming its stand in full solidarity with the NCC, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and all partners dedicated to protecting the rights of creators and preserving the integrity of Nigeria’s publishing industry.
