An anti-piracy operation led by the Nigerian Copyright Commission turned violent on Thursday, September 25, 2025, when suspected pirates ambushed enforcement officers at Sabo Market in Sagamu, Ogun State.
The NCC team, accompanied by operatives of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, had just seized a cache of pirated books from an unmarked shop within the market when they were attacked.
In a statement signed by the NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Ijeoma Egbunike, the Commission described the incident as a “violent and unprovoked attack,” condemning it in strong terms and vowing to prosecute those responsible.
“In addition to other offences, it is also an offence under the Copyright Act to obstruct, hinder, assault, or impede a Copyright Officer in the lawful performance of his duties. The Commission is working with relevant authorities and market executives to identify and ensure the perpetrators are brought to book,” the statement read.
The NCC praised the conduct of its officers and their NSCDC counterparts during the confrontation, commending their “restraint” and “gallantry” in the face of aggression.
Despite the attack, the Commission reaffirmed its commitment to the ongoing anti-piracy campaign. It noted that the federal government is prioritising the creative and copyright-based sectors as part of its broader national development and wealth creation strategy.
The raid, according to the NCC, was in line with its mandate to protect the rights of Nigerian creators and ensure they benefit financially from their intellectual property.
The Commission also issued a call to action, urging market leaders, school proprietors, and community stakeholders to actively support the fight against piracy, describing it as a collective effort crucial to the nation’s progress.
