By Stella Odueme
The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has begun presenting its case against Netnaija Media Enterprises and its representative, Mr. Emmanuel Analike, over alleged online copyright infringement involving the unauthorised distribution of music and audiovisual works.
The case involves allegations of unauthorised reproduction and dissemination of copyrighted materials belonging to Nigerian and foreign right holders.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Director of Public Affairs, Ijeoma Egbunike, on behalf of the Director-General, the Commission said the suit was filed on March 2, 2025, at the Federal High Court under Charge No. FHC/ABJ/CR/422/25.
The four-count charge was brought under the Copyright Act 2022 and includes allegations of producing and possessing 1,458 infringing copies of music and audiovisual works, communicating the works to the public online without authorisation, and possessing equipment allegedly intended for producing infringing copies.
The alleged offences reportedly took place between 2023 and July 2025.
According to the Commission, investigations commenced following repeated complaints from local and international copyright owners over the activities of the Netnaija website, culminating in the arrest of the defendant.
At the court sitting on Monday, the Commission called its first witness, an investigating officer, who began giving evidence in support of the prosecution's case.
The proceedings followed arguments concerning a Notice of Preliminary Objection filed by the defendant's counsel on October 9, 2026.
The court held that the objection was not ripe for hearing and consequently directed the Commission to proceed with the presentation of its case.
The trial was adjourned until November 23, 2026, for continuation of proceedings.
The Commission described the matter as one of its significant ongoing enforcement cases, reaffirming its commitment to combating online piracy, protecting copyright owners and ensuring that alleged copyright violations are handled in accordance with due process.
The NCC was represented by the Head of its Legal Department and prosecuting counsel, Ms. Gladys Isaac-Ojo, alongside Chief Copyright Officer, Legal, Mrs. Joy Ogbonna.