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Piracy and its Effect on The Book Industry in Delta State
Dr. Mercy Ifeyinwa Anyaegbu1 Umejiaku, Nneka Obiamaka2 Masigwe Rita
Adafor3
1Festus Aghagbo Nwako Library,Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka.
2Faculty of Law,Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka
3Faculty of Education, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka
Abstract: The study sought to find out the causes of book piracy and its effect on book industry in Delta State.
Six research questions guided the study. Questionnaire was the major instrument for data collection from staff of
printing and publishing companies. The research design was a survey. The respondents comprised of 50 members
of staff of 20 selected printing and publishing companies in Delta State. Data collected was analyzed using the
weighted mean and the Likert rating scale. The analysis revealed that piracy exists as a result of high cost of
books, people’s quest for ‘quick money’, high rate of unemployment and availability of modern means of
reproduction such as photocopying machines, among other reasons. On the effect of piracy on the book industry,
the study revealed that piracy has discouraged authors from writing more books. Consequently, it has flooded the
market with poor quality books and has resulted in loss of employment for most professionals of the book
publishing industry. Furthermore, piracy was also described as an economic sabotage, which the Nigerian
Copyright Commission has not been able to completely wipe out. Based on the finding, recommendations were
made to help curb this menace in Delta State.
Keywords: Piracy, Copyright Infringement, Intellectual property, Delta State.
I. Introduction
A book is a written means of communication through which ideas are transferred from one person to
another or a group of persons to another. Books are indispensable media for the transmission of ideas, reading
material for education as well as vehicles for cultural diffusion and assimilation. Books are needed for recording
the history and experiences of men and every generation of any country. Books are, therefore, needed to describe
human conditions, the problems of human relationships, the comedies and tragedies of human life. The person
who is solely responsible for the intellectual content of a book is known as the author. As a creator or owner of
this property though intangible, he reserves the exclusive right to enjoy the proceeds of his work. Copyright
bestows this right on the author of a literary work which usually lasts for a period of time depending on the
provisions of the law that guaranteed this right.
Copyright is therefore defined by Reuters (2016)as a person‟s exclusive right to reproduce, p ublish or
sell his or her original work of authorship (as a literary, musical, dramatic, artistic or architectural work). Copyright
protection is available only to original works of authorship that are fixed in a tangible form irrespective of whether
it is published or unpublished. According to Reuters (2016), the primary goal of copyright law is to protect the
time, effort, and creativity of the creator of a work. It gives the owner the exclusive right to:
• Reproduce the work
• Prepare derivative works (other works based on the original work)
• Distribute copies of the work by sale, lease, or other transfer of ownership
• Perform the work publicly
• Display the work publicly
• Transfer this right to another person
Thus copyright is a legal backing that bestows ownership on the creator of literary work. Piracy on the
other hand is the unauthorized reproduction or use of a copyrighted work. UNESCO (2007) defined piracy as the
reproduction and distribution of copies of copyright protected material, or the communication to the public and
making available of such on on-line communication networks, without the authorization of the right owner(s)
where such authorization is required by law. Traditionally, piracy concerned the unauthorized the unauthorized
reproduction and distribution of physical copies of protected works, on a commercial purpose. Infringing activities
include illegal commercial photocopying and/or printing and reproduction of books and other printed material in
digital form as well as distribution in hard copy or digital format (2007). WiseGeek (2016) outlined some of the
consequences of piracy as follows:
• Illegal downloading of the music of a favorite artist results in that musician not being not being paid residual
monies for his work
Piracy and Its Effect on The Book Industry In Delta State
• Illegal downloads can be fraught with spyware and viruses capable of destroying hard drives and ruining
computers
• In the case of end users, or counterfeit software, users without a legal copy are unable to receive program
support or updates from the manufacturer.
It would not be out of place to say that books are the vital instruments available to man in his battle
against intellectual bankruptcy and education will remain an illusion in any environment devoid of books. The
impact of the educational revolution that blew across the entire country following the attainment of independence
in 1960 has manifested itself in the proliferation of various kinds of educational institutions in the country.
Consequently, this has given rise to a diversification of business interests one of which is the book trade.
Regrettably, the book industry in Delta State has not been easy to sustain. It has been battling with a lot of problems
such as plagiarism, lack of authors, publishers‟ infringement of the copyright law and piracy. Piracy has threatened
the very foundation of the book industry and has generated a lot of tension, debates and arguments in Delta State.
In this regard, many concerned citizens see it as a threat to the development of the book industry in the country.
As Nally (2000) pointed out, “The greatest evil of piracy has always been its debilitating onslaught on creative
and intellectual output and pursuit…” Parson (2001) wrote that unless the interests of artists of all kinds-including
creators of literature-are suitably protected that fountain is liable to dry up at the source and the world will be the
poorer.
Ojiji (2000) warned that “blatant violation of sanctity of the author‟s intellectual property is bound to
create a major difference to the nation‟s pool of creative works”. According to him, such a situation would not
only spell the demise of creative arts, but will also have a negative impact on the overall development of the nation.
The level of technology in modern printing in film and colour has made it both cheap and easy for pirates to
reproduce identical form as the original. This advancement in technology makes it more difficult to identify the
pirated works. Technical development has made these processes even simpler and their use more widespread as
they increase flow of information throughout the society. The temptation to make unauthorized use of copyright
materials has increased due to the development of new techniques of reproduction. Piracy of copyrighted works
has amounted to economic sabotage; it constitutes a barrier to trade as it makes it difficult for legitimate business
to thrive.
Statement of the Problem
The Nigerian book industry is faced with a deluge of problems one of which is book piracy. This social
menace with its attendant economic loss especially to copyright owners has eaten deep into the economic fabric
of Nigeria as a nation. Piracy seems to thrive in Nigeria unabated. The present study therefore seeks to find out
the impact of piracy on book production in Delta State.
Purpose of the Study This
study sought to:
1. Find out why book piracy exists in Delta State.
2. Identify the effects of piracy on the book industry in Delta State
3. Identify the effect of book piracy on the economy of Delta State.
4. Find out the existence of any copyright laws in the country.
5. Evaluate the effort of the Nigerian Copyright Commission to check book piracy
6. Make recommendation aimed at curbing book piracy in Delta State.
Research Questions
The following research questions guided the conduct of this study; 1.
Why does book piracy exist in Delta State?
2. What are the effects of piracy on the book industry of Delta State?
3. What are the effects of book piracy on the economy of Delta State?
4. What copyright laws exist in Nigeria?
5. What efforts have the Nigerian Copyright Commission made to curb book piracy?
6. What strategies can be adopted to curb book piracy in Delta State?
Literature Review
Piracy cuts across many spheres of human activity particularly the book industry. Book piracy has been
defined as the illegal reproduction of books on commercial basis without the authorization of the author or
publisher concerned (Adebayo, 2002). The greatest evil of piracy has always been its debilitating onslaught on
creative and intellectual output. Dada (2000) described piracy as a flagrant infringement of copyright on
intellectual property and an utter disregard for ownership or authorship of literary works which include textbooks,
Piracy and Its Effect on The Book Industry In Delta State
essays, articles, encyclopedias, dictionaries, law reports and enactments, tables or compilations among many
others. Akinwumi (2000) further defined it as the total removal, duplication or reproduction and other biblio-vices
that are connected with the printed word. Ekweozoh (1986) described it as the unpatriotic acts of some Nigerians
who engage in the illegal reproduction, on commercial bases, of publishers‟/authors‟ works without any
authorization or license. It amounts to copyright theft which is the right of control that an author exercises in law
over the use which others make of his works. This means that book piracy is the unlawful production and
fraudulent sale or distribution of intellectual works of an author. Owing to the nature of the activities of pirates
who have continued to make an unmerited living out of the sweat, creative talents, art and investment of authors
and publishers, future generations might not be partakers in the nourishing knowledge of these exceptionally
talented authors.
Adebayo (2002) explained that the act is “infringing” because it is carried out by persons other than the
creators and/or owners of the copyright without authorization from the creators and/or owners. Olagunju (2001)
sees a pirate as a person who reproduces or causes to be reproduced without permission from the original work of
another person in defiance of the copyright law… he is a thief of another person‟s intellectual property.” In
Olagunju‟s view, the major agents of this crime in the book industry are printers and booksellers. He reasoned
that the present level of technological advancement has made reprography both cheap and easy for pirates to
reproduce identical forms as the original such that it is sometimes difficult to identify pirated works in most cases.
Ajidahun (2003) outlined the ugly nature of piracy thus:
• The pirate never publishes a new book or records a new song or performance; he does nothing whatsoever to
encourage local creativity.
• The pirate pays no royalties to the author, the illustrator, the translator, or to the composer, arranger, lyric
writer or performer or to any of the other creative people who have contributed to the original work; so that
even if it is a local book written by a local author or a song composed by a local musician, the local interests
will derive nothing from the pirates‟ activities.
• In the case of books, the quality of the pirated edition is often very poor; this may not matter a lot in the case
of fiction, but in textbooks e.g. medical books on surgery, badly reproduced diagrams and illustrations could
be quite serious.
• The pirate makes no payment to the original publisher or to the record or film producer in respect of
production, editorial or distribution costs; so that in the case of a local production the economic base of the
local publisher or producer and he has to apply part of the profits from the one successful product to recoup
the losses on the other nine. The pirate keeps all his profits.
Book piracy comes in different forms and takes different shapes. Writers, however agree that it is using someone
else‟s work without authorization. According to Adebayo (2002) these acts of infringement include:
• Reproduction of part or whole of textbooks, journals, magazines, circulars and so on without the permission
of the copyright owner.
• photocopying of part or whole of an author‟s work by teachers of educational institutions as lecture notes to
students without permission or acknowledgement of the copyright owner. According to Akinwumi (2000),
higher educational institutions in Nigeria are among the greatest offenders of biblio-piracy although they are
a microcosm of the macrocosm. He states further: that these higher institutions are the worst
offenderslecturers and professors photocopy chapters of books until whole books are cyclostyled under the
pretext of helping students through handout.
• Students reproducing an already written project by another student and claiming it as their own original write-
up.
• Lifting articles and opinions from literary works and using them in write-ups without acknowledging the
original creators of such works in any way.
• Acting a drama on stage for commercial purposes without the permission of the copyright owners.
• Publishers and printers reproducing books put under their care by the original creators and selling such works
for personal profit. Therefore, piracy include illegal reproduction, distribution, exhibition in public,
performance in public, showing/playing in public, broadcasting/telecasting, publishing, adaptation, and
translation and so on of any work of intellectual property.
Many reasons have been adduced to why piracy thrives in Delta State. Ashaolu (2003) attributes the
involvement of some school teachers, heads, lecturers and even proprietors in piracy to a quest for „quick money‟.
He lamented that this extremely condemnable practice, whose sphere of patronage should be limited to the
unlettered and intellectual deprived, seems instead, to be attracting Nigerians who ought to know better. Lamenting
on the same issue, Asagwa (2002) said that book piracy exists due to weak infrastructure in book publishing and
marketing which according to him developed as a result of the inability of publishers to meet the high demand for
Piracy and Its Effect on The Book Industry In Delta State
books in our society; to him, it is a situation that created a lucrative business for the pirates who have readily filled
the gap between legitimate publishers and customers. Okigbo (2001) sees the booming business of piracy as
nothing short of intellectual robbery. To him, piracy is allowed to thrive because through it books are pieced to
the reach of many. Pirates take advantage of the high prices of books to run publishers out of business, by using
cheaper materials and selling their copies at very low rates.
The existence of piracy could also be attributed to the loopholes in the former copyright laws, which
lacked force of adherence and was too weak as to deter offenders, since the law provided that one would have to
prove that the culprits knowingly committed the offence. Dada (2000) writing on the subject of the law librarian
and copyright law stated that the present increase in photocopying of materials especially for library use is due
mainly to the scarcity of basic law texts, law reports and journals. The law librarian becomes handicapped in the
exercise of his professional duty in collecting current materials in the event of non-availability. Another reason,
which has made piracy to thrive, is the inadequacies encountered by the national and state anti-piracy agencies.
According to Adebayo (2002) inadequate funding has rendered the committees incapable of carrying out their
functions. What also contributed to the existence of piracy is the frequent changes in the bureaucratic hierarchies,
which further crippled the committees, preventing them from moving beyond the starting line.
The effect of book piracy is very damaging and frustrating. In stressing this, Parson (2001) wrote that
unless the interests of artists of all kinds, the creators of literature, music, drama are suitably protected, no matter
in what way, the foundation is liable to dry up at the source and the world will be the poorer. The point here is that
piracy destroys the enthusiasm of authors to write because it deprives them of the fruit of their labour, so that if
unchecked may lead to the dearth of the authors and publishers who are the purveyors of books and literature and
scholarship will become poorer. Nally (2000) observed that, “The greatest evil of piracy has always been its
debilitating onslaught on creative and intellectual output and pursuit. In this, the Nigerian pirate has been more
deadly than his international counterparts. Bankole (1999) in his report opined, “it (piracy) constitutes a trade
barrier to legitimate copyright business interests… piracy is a crime. Not only does it affect the image of the
territories concerned, those who indulge in it have been known to support other illegal activities.” Bankole
described piracy of creative products as wreaks on the economy. It denies individual creators and government
revenue. It discourages creativity and hinders the preservation and development of our cultural heritage.
The problem of book piracy became very pronounced right from the time the downturn of the Nigerian
economy became manifest. Its effects on the business of many Nigerian publishing firms has reached an alarming
proportion in terms of the havoc done to publishers‟ sales and turnovers, the overall long term change to the
morale of authors, the effect on legitimate business of book printers in the country, and the important issue of the
doubtful future of the educational sector in Nigeria. All these factors, according to Akin (2003)
“underscore the grave dangers for the future development of Nigerian educational, socio-political and business
life, as a result of the growing menace of piracy to the book industry”.
Ojiji (2000) while contributing to the danger which book piracy placed both to the publishing industry
and the country‟s education sector stated that “blatant violation of the sanctity of the author‟s intellectual property
is bound to create a major difference to the nation‟s pool of creative works”. He also noted that such a situation
would not yet only spell the demise of creative arts, but will also have a negative impact on the overall
development as a nation. Jay Berman (2005) in IFPI report gave three reasons why government must fight piracy:
• First, the greatest victim of piracy is local culture…
• Second, piracy nurtures organized crime. Very often the money that is paid for pirated CDs will be channeled
into the drugs trade, money laundering or other forms of serious organized criminal activities.
• Third, piracy acts as a brake on investment, growth and jobs. In today‟s global economy, intellectual property
is a motor of economic growth.
Ajidahun (2003) sums it up when he wrote that not only does piracy cause financial loss to the various
interests responsible for the creation, production and distribution of legitimate material, it leads to considerable
direct and indirect loss of revenue to governments from unpaid taxes. Furthermore, the principal effect of the
production and distribution in a country of pirated books, recordings, films and video recording is to stultify the
development of the cultural creativity of that country, and also the growth of those industries which disseminate
these works to the public-publishing and printing, record, film and video production and so on.
In Nigeria copyright is protected by the Copyright Act, Cap C.28, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004 and
administered by the Nigerian Copyright Commission. The Act according to Ekpenyong (2015) provides protection
for literary, musical and artistic works, cinematography, sound recordings and broadcasting. Duration of copyright
according to Section 5 (2) subsists for a term of years before falling into the public domain. For literary, artistic
and musical works the term is 70 years after the end of the year in which the author dies.
Copyright has been described as a property right which gives one dominion over the work. It is also a
right of limited duration, an exclusive right and a multiple right, Stephen (2000). The justification for this right is
based on some convincing principles. The first is the principle of natural justice, which maintains that the work of
Piracy and Its Effect on The Book Industry In Delta State
a person is directly the expression of his personality; therefore, he should be able to dictate how his work is to be
published. Also due to the considerable investment needed to make a work of art available to the public through
publication and distribution, the author should be allowed to make a reasonable profit from the sale of his work.
Works produced by artists are great national asset. Such works enrich our national culture. There are some
international treaties which Nigeria being a party to each of them has domesticated as part of its national laws on
intellectual property. These are the WIPO Copyright Treaty (WCT) and WIPO performance and Phonogram
Treaty (WPPT), they made it clear that the traditional property rights of copyrights owners apply even in the digital
environment.
It is a fact that most of the libraries of the universities, colleges and polytechnics are empty and students
can no longer read what is required of them. The consequence of such for the society is very serious. No nation
can develop without recourse to the use of relevant and current books because development without books is a
likened to biological growth without nutrition. However, no nation can develop also when creativity and
intellectual property is susceptible to damage and destruction instead of being protected and rewarded.
Methodology
Survey research design was adopted for the study because the population to be sampled is large. The
target population includes all the publishing and printing industries in Delta State numbering up to 40. Simple
random sampling technique was used to select 20 printers and publishers. This constitutes 50% of the total
population. Instrument for Data Collection was a questionnaire. The likert 4 point scale of response was used. The
data collected was analyzed using the weighted mean. The likert rating system was used to calculate respondents‟
answers. The cut-off point for regarding an item as agree or disagree was computed as follows: For example; SA
= 4, A = 3, D = 2, SD = 1
Mean = SA+A+D+SD 4
X =
4
=
X = 2.5
However, 2.5 is the mean criterion. Therefore, if the result is 2.5 and above, it implies that the respondents agreed,
but if it is below 2.5 it means that the respondents disagreed.
Results
Research Question 1:
Why does book piracy exist in Delta State?
Table 1: Mean scores that show why book piracy exists in Delta State
S/N
ITEMS
SA
A
D
SD
X
REMARKS
1.
Book piracy exists as a result of high cost of books
28
15
5
3.3
Agree
2.
People indulge in piracy in quest of „quick money‟
40
10
-
-
3.8
Agree
3.
It exists as a result of the high rate of unemployment
32
10
6
2
3.4
Agree
4.
Availability of means of reproduction such as photocopy encourages
piracy
10
35
5
-
2.9
Agree
5.
The cost of originating a book far exceeds the cost of reproduction
32
10
5
3
3.5
Agree
6.
Legal protection of copyrighted works are either non-existent or
illenforced
10
40
-
-
3.2
Agree
7.
Piracy generally occurs where unauthorized reprints can improve on
the authorized version in terms of price and availability
15
25
10
-
3.1
Agree
8.
Piracy usually occurs in books that are popular and of high demand in
the school system
5
45
-
-
3.1
Agree
9.
Piracy thrives well where demand far exceeds supply
-
38
19
9
3.2
Agree
Table 1 above shows that the respondents agree with item 1 with a mean of 3.3., this indicates that piracy
exist as a result of high cost of books. Item 2 have a mean of 3.8 showing the respondents agreement that people
indulge in piracy in quest of „quick money‟. The respondents also agreed with items 3 and 4 with a mean of 3.4
and 2.9 respectively which means that piracy also exists as a result of the high rate of unemployment and due to
availability of means of reproduction, such as photocopy. A mean of 3.5 shows that the respondents agree with
item 5, this means that the cost of originating a book is more than the cost of reproduction of the same book. A
Piracy and Its Effect on The Book Industry In Delta State
mean of 3.2 shows the respondents‟ agreement with item 6 which indicates that legal protection of copyrighted
works are either non-existent or ill enforced in Delta State. The respondents also agreed with items
7 and 8 with a mean of 3.1 respectively, this shows that piracy generally occurs where unauthorized reprints can
improve on the authorized version and also in books that are popular and of high demand in the school system.
Finally, the respondents agree that piracy thrives well where demand for books far exceeds supply with a mean
figure of 3.2.
Research Question 2:
What are the effects of piracy on the book industry in Delta State?
Table II: Mean responses that show the effect of piracy on the book industry in Delta State
S/N
ITEMS
SA
A
D
SD
X
REMARKS
10.
It discourages creativity
50
-
-
-
4.0
Agree
11.
Book piracy has flooded the market with low quality books
20
30
-
-
3.4
Agree
12.
It dampens the enthusiasm of authors to write
10
40
-
-
3.2
Agree
13.
It robs the authors of the means of surviving through their
sweat
12
28
8
3
3.0
Agree
14.
It culminates in the loss of jobs for professionals
10
29
6
5
2.9
Agree
15.
It results in a drastic fall in the sale of authentic works
2
48
-
-
3.0
Agree
16.
It creates a doubtful future for the education sector in Nigeria
2
8
35
5
2.1
Disagree
Table II shows that the respondents agree with the item 10 with a mean of 4.0, which shows that piracy,
discourages creativity. With mean figures of 3.4 and 3.2 respectively of items 11 and 12, we discover that piracy
has flooded the market with low quality books and it also dampens the enthusiasms of authors to write. In items,
13, the respondents agree that piracy robs authors of the means of surviving through their sweat with a mean of
3.0. Also a mean of 3.0 shows the respondents agreement with item 15, which is an indication that piracy also
results in a drastic fall in the sale of authentic works. However, the respondents disagree with item 16 with a mean
of 2.1 and this means that piracy does not create a doubtful future for the education sector in Nigeria.
Research Question 3:
What are the effects of book piracy on the economy?
Table III: Mean responses showing the effects of book piracy on the economy of the nation.
S/N
ITEMS
SA
A
D
SD
X
REMARKS
17.
Book piracy results in the loss of revenue to government
12
38
-
-
3.2
Agree
18.
It constitutes a trade barrier to legitimate copyright business interest
11
29
10
-
2.8
Agree
19.
It hinders the development and preservation of cultural heritage
23
14
10
3
3.1
Agree
20.
The nation losses the wealth of her budding authors
20
30
-
-
3.4
Agree
21.
It negatively affects the image of the country abroad
14
31
-
-
3.4
Agree
22.
Piracy is a criminal offence, which encourages breakdown of law and
order in our society
12
28
10
-
3.0
Agree
Table III shows that the respondents agree with item 17 with a mean of 3.2, which is above the cut-off
point of 2.5, this indicates that piracy results in the loss of revenue to government. Item 18 had a mean of 2.8
which show agreement that piracy constitutes a trade barrier to legitimate copyright business interest. In item 19
the respondents agree that piracy hinders the development and preservation of our cultural heritage with a mean
figure of 3.1. With a mean of 3.4 in each respective case, the respondents agree with items 20 and 21 which show
that piracy makes the nation to lose the wealth of her budding (up-coming) authors and it also negatively affects
the image of the country abroad. Finally, with a mean figure of 3.0, the respondents agree that piracy is a criminal
offence, which encourages breakdown of law and order in our society.
Research Question 4:
Are there any copyright laws in Nigeria?
Table IV: Mean scores that show the existence or otherwise of copyright in laws in Nigeria
S/N
ITEMS
SA
A
D
SD
X
REMARKS
23.
There are copyright laws in Nigeria
10
35
5
-
3.1
Agree
24.
There are copyright laws in Delta State
-
-
45
5
1.9
Disagree
25.
The copyright laws are not enforced in Delta State
23
14
10
3
3.1
Agree
26.
Most pirates are ignorant of the copyright laws
-
2
38
10
1.8
Disagree
Piracy and Its Effect on The Book Industry In Delta State
27.
The penalty of a fine of 100.00 for copyright infringement or
imprisonment for 6 months is not enough punishment
7
30
13
-
2.9
Agree
In table IV, the mean of 3.1 shows the respondents agreement with the statement that there are copyright
laws in Nigeria. However, Delta State does not have her own copyright laws as can be deduced from the
respondents‟ disagreement with item 24 with a mean of 1.9. The respondents agree with item 25 with a mean of
3.1 indicating that the copyright laws are not well enforced in Delta State. A mean of 1.8 for item 26 show the
respondents‟ disagreement with the item meaning that pirates are well aware of the existence of copyright laws in
Nigeria. Finally, a mean figure of 2.9 for item 27 shows the respondents agree with the statements that the penalty
of 100.00 for every copy of material infringed or 6 months imprisonment as spelt out in the copyright laws is not
enough punishment for piracy of books.
Research Question 5:
What efforts has the Nigerian Copyright Commission made to curb book piracy?
Table V: Mean responses showing the efforts of the copyright commission to curb book piracy
S/N
ITEMS
SA
A
D
SD
X
REMARKS
28.
I am not aware of the existence of any corporate body called the
Nigerian Copyright Commission
-
-
42
8
1.8
Disagree
29.
The Nigerian Copyright Commission has a branch office in Delta State
-
-
44
6
1.9
Disagree
30.
The Commission is a “toothless bulldog”
5
8
35
2
2.3
Disagree
31.
The commission has organized raids in recent times to check the
activities of book pirates
10
30
8
2
3.0
Agree
32.
These raids are regular
-
5
40
5
2.0
Disagree
33.
The Nigerian Police force is very much involved in these raids
2
10
38
-
2.3
Disagree
34.
The activities of the copyright commission have helped to curb activities
of prints in Delta State
2
10
38
-
2.3
Disagree
In table V a mean of 1.8 shows that the respondents disagree with item 28, this means that the general
public is aware of the existence of a corporate body known as the Nigerian Copyright Commission. The
respondents also disagree with item 29 with a mean of 1.9 and this indicates that the commission does not have
any branch office in Delta State. Also a mean of 2.3 for item 30 shows disagreement with the statement and this
means that the Nigerian Copyright Commission is not a “toothless bulldog”. A mean score of 3.0 shows agreement
with item 31, which is an indication that the commission has organized raids in recent times to check the activities
of pirates.
However, the respondents are of the view that these raids are not regular as can be deduced from item
32, which has a mean score of 2.0. finally, with a mean score of 2.3 respectively, for each of items 33 and 34, the
respondents disagree with the statements and these show that the Nigerian Police Force is not as involved in these
raids as they should and that the activities of the Nigerian Copyright Commission has not in any way stopped the
activities of book piracy in Delta State.
Research Question 6:
What are the solutions to book piracy in Delta State?
Table IV: Mean scores showing the solutions proffered for the eradication of book piracy in Delta State
S/N
ITEMS
SA
A
D
SD
X
REMARKS
35.
Book piracy can be curbed by: Reducing the prices of books to the reach
of the masses
2
48
-
-
3.0
Agree
36.
Reduction or removal of tariff paid on imported books, printing
materials and machines
23
10
5
12
2.9
Agree
37.
Enlightenment of the general public on issue of copyright violation by
the Nigerian Copyright Commission
20
21
9
-
3.2
Agree
38.
Introduction of copyright studies in the secondary and tertiary school
curriculum
9
41
-
-
3.2
Agree
39.
Adequate furnishing of our public libraries with sufficient copies of
popular books by government
6
39
5
-
3.0
Agree
40.
The Nigerian Police Force should take anti-piracy task force activities
seriously
9
41
-
-
3.2
Agree
41.
The Copyright Commission should organize more regular raids to
frustrate the efforts of these pirates
10
40
-
-
3.2
Agree
Piracy and Its Effect on The Book Industry In Delta State
42.
Lecturers should be encouraged to recommend published textbooks for
students instead of handouts
10
40
-
-
3.2
Agree
43.
Government should strengthen the existing copyright laws in terms of
penalties
7
43
-
-
3.1
Agree
In table VI: The mean scores for each of the items show that the respondents agree with the solutions
proffered for the eradication of the problem of book piracy in Delta State. With a mean score of 3.0 they agree
that prices of books should be reduced to the reach of the masses. In item 36, a mean of 2.9 shows that they agree
that piracy can be curbed through the reduction of complete removal of tariff paid on imported books, printing
machines and materials. In item 37, a mean of 3.22 indicates that the respondents agree that the Nigerian Copyright
Commission should enlighten the general public on issues of copyright violation. The respondents also agree with
item 38 with a mean score of 3.2. This means that the introduction of copyright studies in the curriculum of
secondary and tertiary institutions can help to curb book piracy. In item 39, the respondents agree with a mean of
3.0 that adequate furnishing of our public libraries with sufficient copies of popular books by government can also
help to check book piracy. With mean figures of 3.2 each for items 40, 41 and 42 respectively, the respondents
agree that the Nigerian Police Force should take anti-piracy task force activities more seriously. The Nigerian
Copyright Commission needs to organize more regular raids to frustrate the efforts of these pirates and also
lecturers in our universities should be encouraged to recommend published textbooks for students use instead of
handouts. Finally, with a mean score of 3.1 for items 43, the respondents agree that the government should
strengthen the existing copyright laws in terms of placing stiffer penalties for copyright infringement.
Discussion of Results
From the analysis on research question 1, it has been revealed that book piracy exists in Delta State due
to high cost of books in the market as a result of which parents and other users resort to pirated copies, which are
relatively cheaper. It was also discovered that most book pirates indulge in the act in order to get „quick money‟
since they do not have the patience and diligence to settle down and create their own original works. The ill
enforcement of the copyright laws ahs also contributed to the existence of piracy as culprits are allowed to operate
unhindered. It was also revealed that piracy usually occurs in books that are popular and of high demand in the
school system, especially for books which demand far exceeds the supply; hence pirated copies make-up for the
shortage in supply. Moreover, the findings revealed that book piracy is encouraged by the availability of modern
means of reproduction such as photocopying machines which make it easier to reproduce as many copies as
possible under the shortest possible time. However, the researcher was able to discover that unemployment
contributes to the thriving business of pirates and also that the cost of originating a book is much more than the
cost of reproducing the same book.
Effect of Piracy on the Book Industry
The findings here indicate that book piracy discourages creativity and dampens the enthusiasm of authors
to write. This is due to the fact that it robs them of the benefits derivable form their hard labours. Book piracy also
leads to loss of jobs for crops of professionals in the book publishing industry as users resort to pirated copies of
books whose prices are relatively cheap compared to the prices of the original copies. This results in drastic fall
in the sale of the authentic works, which these professionals publish. Analysis of this question however, revealed
that book piracy does not impact negatively on the future of the education sector on Nigeria.
Effect of Book Piracy on the Economy
Here, the findings indicate that piracy results in the loss of revenue to government, as pirates do not pay
taxes to government or any other body. It also constitutes a trade barrier to legitimate copyright business interest.
Book piracy, it has been discovered, discourages budding (up-coming) authors for fear that any work originated
by them would very soon be a victim of piracy. Therefore, this hinders the development and preservation of our
cultural heritage, as they are not properly recorded as should be. It was also discovered which encourages the
breakdown of law and order in the society. This affects the image of the country especially on its dealings with
the outside world.
Existence of Copyright Laws in Nigeria
Findings of the study revealed that the general public agrees with the existence of a copyright law in
Nigeria. Delta State however does not have her own copyright laws therefore; they operate with the National
Copyright laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. It was also revealed that these copyright laws are not enforced
as much as they should in Delta State. The researcher discovered that pirate‟s are well aware of the existence of
Piracy and Its Effect on The Book Industry In Delta State
copyright infringement laws in the country even though they continuously flout them. The general consensus was
however, that the penalty of a fine of 100.00 for copyright infringement or imprisonment for 6 months is not
enough punishment for such a grievous offence as piracy.
Effort of the Nigerian Copyright Commission in curbing the activities of book pirates
From the analysis in table 5, it was discovered that members of the Nigerian public are aware of the
existence of a body known as the Nigerian Copyright Commission. However this Commission does not have a
branch office in Delta State. The Nigerian Copyright Commission, according to the findings has organized raids
both in Delta and other states of the Federation though these raids are not quite regular in Delta State. It was also
revealed that the Nigerian Police Force has not played a very active role in these raids and this may have
contributed to the inability of the Nigerian Copyright Commission to curb the activities of these book pirates
especially in Delta State.
Strategies Aimed at the eradication of book piracy in Delta State
With reference to table 6, which dealt with research question 6, the findings indicate that book piracy can
be checked by a lot of measures. Among them are that prices of books should be reduced so that the masses who
are in the majority can afford these books and there should be reduction or removal of tariff paid on imported
books printing materials and machines. If this is done books will become cheaper and the people can therefore
afford to buy them. The Nigerian Copyright Commission need to organize enlightenment programmes to educate
the general public on issues of copyright violation, only then can the masses be aware of the implications of buying
pirated copies of books. It would also help to include copyright studies into the curriculum of the secondary and
tertiary institutions. This will help the up-coming leaders to know the evils of piracy and fight it. Government
should make it a policy to furnish our public libraries with popular books, as this will discourage people from
buying the pirated copies. Piracy could also be checked if the Nigerian Copyright Commission should organize
more regular raids to frustrate the efforts of these pirates. On the part of lecturers, they should recommend
published textbooks for students instead of photocopying handouts. Finally, government should strengthen the
existing copyright laws by placing stiffer penalties on copyright violation.
Conclusion
Based on the findings the following conclusion was drawn.
1. Piracy is an evil, which has had a lot of effect on every aspect of the society
2. The activities of pirates have resulted in the loss of jobs for professionals who are engaged in book publishing
as means of livelihood.
3. Our society is at the moment facing unprecedented lack of creative and committed authors and publishers.
This is because the economic rights of the authors have been denied them and publishers no longer have the
zeal to invest in worthy works, which may be prone to piracy
4. Publishing firms have also experienced a drastic fall in the sale of authentic works as pirates sell their books
at much cheaper prices having used cheaper materials.
5. Government has lost huge amount of revenue, which should have accrued from the publication of these books,
as pirates do not pay taxes to the government.
6. Government should strengthen the existing laws in terms of penalties for infringement of copying as well as
create an enabling environment for book industries to flourish.
7. Piracy has flooded the market with low quality books therefore; emphasis should be laid on the enlightenment
of the general public on the elimination of piracy.
8. Piracy is a crime against humanity; no effort should be spared in its elimination.
Implications of the Findings
This research work has some far reaching implications. Based on the findings the implications were outlined as
follows:
1. The book industry has been affected by the activities of pirates, as there are low quality books in the market.
The authors are unwilling to write more and professionals have lost their jobs to pirates. The implication of
this is that the book industry in Nigeria is heading for gradual destruction if the activities of pirates are not
curbed.
2. The non-payment of taxes to government by pirates implies that government has lost and will continue to
lose huge amount of derivable revenue if the activities of these pirates are not checked.
3. There is bound to be a death of authors in the nation as no one would like to create a work or write a book
that he will not reap the financial benefits there from.
Piracy and Its Effect on The Book Industry In Delta State
Recommendation
Based on the findings of the study, the following recommendations were made:
1. The Nigerian Copyright Commission should embark on massive enlightenment of members of the public on
copyright issue. This is necessary, since owners of copyrights and copyright inspectors cannot be everywhere
at the same time. Thus, a well-informed public will help to detect places where pirating of books are carried
out. The National Orientation Agency can be co-opted by the Nigerian Copyright Commission in this regard.
2. Members of the Academia should be encouraged to publish books for the students rather than producing
handout. This will provide new texts in the book industry and ultimately help in developing the book industry.
3. Government should set in motion machinery to check the activities of the security agents, especially the Police
and the customs and excise. The researcher is of the view that all the bad elements in our society system who
have been dragging the good image of the police and customs to the mud should be identified and flushed out
forthwith.
4. The copyright laws on penalties for infringement of our copyright need to be reviewed with a view to
providing stiffer penalties. This will deter pirate‟s form their nefarious activities. On the other hand,
government should help to ensure the speedy application of the law against defaulters. A situation where
cases that should normally take one week are allowed to linger for years is not only frustrating and time
consuming; the Nigerian public is beginning to lose confidence in the courts. As a results issue of copyright
infringement is not enforced in the law courts.
5. Our educational books should be seen as essential social services to feed the mind; and so books should be
given the same sort of attention as drugs. Government should relax fiscal measures that inhibit the
development of the book industry. These measures such as; tariffs paid on imported books, printing materials
and machines, when removed entirely or reduced considerably will eliminate the scarcity and high cost of
books, a major factor that enhances piracy.
Books should be allowed into the country duty free and most importantly, school, college and university
books should be subsidized by government. Publishers should be given grants to offset the orientation,
promotion and incentive cost of such books. The effect of this measure is that the shelf prices of books will
hardly be higher than the cost of printing; thus making it unprofitable for pirates.
6. There is need for the Nigerian Police Force to take up seriously the case of the anti-piracy task force. The
task force should be provided with the necessary logistics that will enable it to constantly police publishing
houses to help check infringement of copyright. Cases of infringement when detected should be prosecuted
and the public made aware. This will help to deter pirates.
7. Copyright studies should be introduced in the curriculum of our secondary and tertiary institutions on order
to instill the importance of copyrights into our future leaders. This, when carried out, will help in the reduction
of piracy and will be of immense help to the growth of our book industry.
8. Adequate funding of our public libraries by the government will enable the public libraries to stock sufficient
copies of popular books which members of the public will have access to. Authors and publishers should also
donate copies of their books to the libraries. This will help reduce the attraction of patronizing pirated books.
9. In addition, the Nigerian Publishers Association should seek ways of achieving the much-desired viability in
the book industry. They should learn to be more sincere in their dealings with the authors. A situation where
the authors are always accusing publishers and vice-versa of cheating is not in the interest of the healthy
development of the book industry, as the pirates tend to capitalize on such a situation to carry out their illegal
acts.
Both publishers and the authors should endeavour to close ranks and see one another, as partners in
progress because both of them must exist before there will be publishing. Thus, until rapport is created between
the publishers on one hand, and the authors on the other, the present problem of piracy with regard to the publishing
industry might continue to defy solutions
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