The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has ordered the suspension of several .ng domain names found to be involved in extensive unauthorised distribution of copyrighted music, videos, and other creative works.
The enforcement action, carried out in collaboration with the Nigerian Internet Registration Association (NiRA), followed a formal complaint from the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI). The implicated domains—now taken offline by their respective registrars—include: val9ja.com.ng, tunesloaded.com.ng, voxnaija.com.ng, music.360media.com.ng, medianub.com.ng, naijalevels.com.ng, and mp3juice.com.ng.
According to the NCC’s Special Taskforce Against Online Piracy (STOP), investigations confirmed that the websites were engaged in “blatant copyright infringement,” illegally sharing unlicensed music and audiovisual content belonging to both Nigerian and international rights holders. The Commission noted that such piracy undermines lawful digital platforms and deprives creators and investors of rightful earnings.
In a statement to The Guardian, the NCC emphasized that the intervention forms part of its strengthened enforcement drive under the Copyright Act, 2022, which empowers the agency to investigate and curb online copyright violations across websites, streaming services, and other digital channels. The Commission added that it continues to work closely with NiRA and domain registrars to ensure rapid suspension of any .ng domain implicated in copyright breaches.
Reaffirming the NCC’s commitment to protecting the nation’s creative industry, Director-General Dr. John Asein said the recent actions send a clear message that Nigeria “will not tolerate digital piracy.” He expressed appreciation to NiRA and cooperating registrars, assuring rights holders of the Commission’s sustained collaboration with national and international partners to strengthen anti-piracy efforts. He also urged the public to report suspicious platforms via stop.copyright.gov.ng.
The NCC disclosed that its renewed crackdown has also led to the suspension of MovieBox.ng, a popular streaming site known for hosting pirated movies, music, and live sports content.
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