The Music Publishers Association of Nigeria (MPAN) has appealed to the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) to lift the suspension of the licence of thee Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON) in the interest of music business in Nigeria.
The above appeal is contained in a Press Statement issued by MPAN earlier today. The press statement signed by the Chairman and Secretary of MPAN respectively highlighted the cogent reason why the NCC should reconsider its stands.
The Press Release reads in part:
“MPAN recognizes that the NCC’s actions regarding COSON are well intended especially in light of the fact that the NCC under the impressive leadership of Mr. Afam Ezekude has been one of the biggest contributors to the significant positive developments of copyright administration in Nigeria.”
“However, we believe that the NCC can achieve its objective – of ensuring rights owners and creators are well represented by their designated CMO – without adversely affecting COSON’s members which we are one of. The impact of NCC’s decision to suspend COSON’s license, on rights owners is that we do not have any CMO properly and effectively representing our rights.”
“The continued suspension has created uncertainty about the stability of music business in Nigeria, and is ultimately driving away much needed foreign and local investment in the music industry as funding plans are literally having to be put on hold pending the resolution of this matter.”
“MPAN thus firmly but respectfully calls for the NCC to not throw away the baby with the bath water and lift the suspension of COSON’s licence without further delay as MPAN, investors and thousands of helpless copyright owners across Nigeria and beyond continue to suffer otherwise.”
“Nigeria is rapidly approaching a critical turning point in the development of copyright (administration), and with increasing consumption of creative works by an increasing global audience, huge opportunities for value generation abound both for creators and the country’s GDP alike.”
“It is important that the huge strides made by what is undoubtedly the leading CMO in Nigeria are not undone due to issues that could be resolved in a much less damaging manner.”
“The COSON success which is now gravely threatened was built on account of huge sacrifices made by many people, over several years, including many diligent and committed officers of the NCC.”
“MPAN therefore appeals to the NCC for an immediate withdrawal of the suspension in the interest of all stakeholders in the Nigerian music industry.”
“We have earlier sent a letter to the NCC dated 20th June 2018, wherein we made this request and also proferred other options which the NCC could exercise to achieve its aim of ensuring that rights owners and creators are well represented by their designated CMO.Though we are yet to receive a response to our letter, we are hopeful that the NCC and its leadership would consider our suggestions and act on them speedily.”
The Press Release is herewith attached
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