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Intellectual Property Infringement in Nigeria

Intellectual property owners in Nigeria gathered at the National Theatre during a protest rally displaying placards. The practitioners made up of musicians, actors, writers etc. are embarking on what they described as hunger strike which they claim will continue until they get the attention of government.

The protesters are calling for the short-down of Alaba International market in Western Nigeria, which it is believed remains the single largest international piracy cartel in sub-Saharan Africa. As part of their protest, high powered delegation will be sent to the National Assembly in Abuja. They also announced a plan to ask all radio and television stations nation-wide to stand-down all music programs for twelve hours starting from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. This action is too driving in the importance of music in our lives.

This is the first time ever that such a large gathering of intellectual property owners have come together to protest against copyright abuse.

These Nigerians deserve the support of every Nigerian and the authorities. I appeal to the National Assembly to receive their protest letter with open mind and work towards addressing the issues raised. I also believe the international intellectual property owners and producers should give their support to this new effort because it is for the protection of the interest of both local and international intellectual property rights.

It is imperative to consider the claim by intellectual property owners that this industry is bigger than the oil industry in terms of revenue generation. This makes the sector one to reckon with. This means that government stand to benefit if the industry is developed and the appropriate controls are put in place. Government can raise huge tax revenue from music, software, movies, books etc.

It is therefore pertinent to remind us that while we are protesting and craving for better controls and management of the industry, it should be made clear that we should be ready to pay taxes on these intellectual property materials as well as our personal tax returns. That is how government can directly benefit.
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