Keji Mustapha
Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)
Ondo State Command
Akure, Ondo State | 3rd September, 2025
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ondo State Command, in collaboration with the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), has arrested several bookshop owners involved in the sale of pirated books to unsuspecting members of the public.
The coordinated anti-piracy operation was conducted across Akure (Ondo State) and Ado Ekiti (Ekiti State) in accordance with Section 44(2) of the Copyright Act, which prohibits:
- The sale of infringing copies of copyrighted works
- Distribution of pirated materials for trade or commercial purposes
- Possession of pirated works beyond private or domestic use
Violations of this law attract penalties including fines and imprisonment.
Speaking with journalists, Mrs. Oke Oluropo, the State Coordinator for the NCC covering Oyo, Osun, Ondo, Ogun, and Ekiti States, praised the NSCDC for its professionalism and operational support during the exercise.
“This operation was a huge success due to the commitment and professionalism of NSCDC officers in Ondo State,” she stated. “It is a statutory responsibility of the Commission, and we have commenced inspections of schools and distribution outlets where copyrighted materials are being sold.”
Also speaking at the event, Commandant Oluyemi Ibiloye, the Ondo State NSCDC Commandant, reaffirmed the Command’s dedication to protecting intellectual property and ensuring a safe commercial environment.
“The fight against piracy demands stronger collaboration,” he said. “Together, we can protect intellectual property rights, support the creative industry, and shut the door against criminal elements exploiting the system.”
The public—including parents, guardians, school administrators, and booksellers—is hereby advised to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases of piracy or sale of counterfeit educational materials to the appropriate authorities.
This joint effort underscores the commitment of the NSCDC and NCC to safeguard the rights of content creators and maintain the integrity of Nigeria’s educational and publishing systems.
