Traders at Sabo Market, Sagamu, on Thursday confronted officials of the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) and blocked them from leaving with seized pirated books.
The enforcement team, led by Oyo State Coordinator Mrs. Oluropo Oke, had successfully raided and sealed two bookshops selling pirated materials. The confrontation escalated when a mob, reportedly led by the husband of one of the shop owners, threatened to burn the commission’s vehicles, including one belonging to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
NSCDC operatives accompanying the NCC team were also attacked as the traders attempted to reclaim the seized books.
Mrs. Oke told journalists that the team was carrying out its constitutional mandate under NCC Director General Dr. John Asein and would not be intimidated by the attack. She warned that all individuals aiding piracy in the market would face legal consequences.
“Piracy is a form of economic sabotage that discourages creativity, fuels unemployment, and attracts a minimum five-year jail term,” she said. “We remain resolute in enforcing copyright laws despite unprovoked attacks.”
Oke urged Nigerians to collaborate with authorities to combat piracy, emphasizing its negative effects on the economy and job creation.