E-Vendors Agree on Subscribing to Copyright Clearance and Certification to Curb Online Infringements

OWNERS of e-commerce platforms have resolved to the Copyright Clearance and Certification  initiative of the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) for online marketers to protect online contents and minimise cases of copyright infractions.

This resolution was at the end of an interactive meeting between the NCC, representatives of some online vendors: Konga Nigeria Ltd, Naija Books, Patabah Books, Rovinheights  and Booksellers Association of Nigeria (BAN) at the Commission’s headquarters, Abuja on 28th October 2024.

In his address, the Director-General, NCC, Dr. John O. Asein, said the meeting became necessary to address complaints from authors and publishers on the sale of pirated books through their online platforms.

He disclosed that lack of due diligence on the part of some of the service providers has necessitated the conversations to develop appropriate protocols and regulations while taking cognizance of the need to protect the ease of doing business for online vendors.

The DG added that the NCC as a regulatory body has the responsibility of protecting legitimate businesses from the poaching activities of pirates who would use any outlet for their illicit activities.

Responding, the Head of North, Konga Nig. Ltd, Ms. Yvonne Enwerem, said Konga is passionate and committed to protecting the integrity of Nigerian authors through  the company’s Know Your Customer (KYC) approach which requires proper documentation.

Corroborating the DG’s position that the system may not be perfect, Ms. Enwerem explained that Konga encourages feedback for improved services. She assured the Commission that the company will study and review its operations to block loopholes while maintaining  that the KYC approach adopted would expose criminals.

The meeting also resolved on the vetting of all operators engaged in the supply of copyright materials, especially books, to ensure that only legitimate operators are allowed on the platforms.

The former Chairman of the Nigerian Book Fair Trust and former President of BAN, Mr. Dare Oluwatuyi, commended the NCC for the proactive intervention against the activities of pirates and called for more collaboration to stem the tide of piracy in both the physical and online space.

 

Amos Abutu

For: Director-General