House of Reps Orders Probe into Copyright Administration Irregularities
The House of Representatives has mandated its Committee on Justice to investigate the alleged irregularities in the administration of copyright matters in Nigeria.
The Committee is expected to engage relevant stakeholders, including the Federal Ministry of Justice, the Nigerian Copyright Commission, representatives of the music industry, collective management organisations and any other persons or bodies connected with the issues and report within four weeks for further legislative action(s).
This resolution was sequel to a motion moved during plenary by Hon Nkemkanma Kama, representing representing Ohaozara/Onicha/Ivo Federal Constituency, Ebonyi State.
Hon. Kama noted that the public outcry by the Copyright Society of Nigeria Ltd/GTE (COSON), various musicians, authors, composers, performers and copyright owners.
He urged the Federal Government to dismantle the scheme foisted on the Nigerian Music Industry to siphon money from innocent Nigerian copyright owners, etc., by the immediate past Attorney-General and Minister of Justice.
The motion reads “The House notes the public outcry by the Copyright Society of Nigeria Ltd/GTE (COSON), various musicians, authors, composers, performers and copyright owners, urging the Federal Government to dismantle the scheme foisted on the Nigerian Music Industry to siphon money from innocent Nigerian copyright owners, etc., by the immediate past Attorney-General and Minister of Justice.
“Also notes that the outcry raises serious concerns on the administration and regulation of copyright matters in Nigeria including allegations of actions and decisions which may have adversely affected the interests of Nigerian musicians, authors, composers, performers and other copyright owners.
“Concerned that the allegations raised, if established, may have significant implications for the protection of intellectual property rights, the creative industry, and the livelihoods of Nigerian artists and rights holders.
“Cognizant of the importance of providing all parties concerned with a fair opportunity to present their positions and relevant evidence in accordance with the principles of natural justice.
“Aware that the House of Representatives has a constitutional responsibility to ensure transparency,
accountability and adherence to due process in the administration of public affairs and institutions established by law as enshrined in Section 88 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).
“Resolves to mandate the Committee on Justice to investigate the alleged irregularities in the administration
of Copyright Matters in Nigeria, engage relevant stakeholders, including the Federal Ministry of Justice, the Nigerian Copyright Commission, representatives of the music industry, collective management organisations and any other persons or bodies connected with the issues and report within four weeks for further legislative action(s)”.
