Manny Ita –
The founder of popular Nigerian entertainment platform NetNaija has appeared in court over allegations of copyright infringement linked to the distribution of protected digital content on the website.
The case, which is currently before a Federal High Court in Lagos, centers on claims that the platform hosted and distributed films, music, and other copyrighted materials without proper authorization from rights holders.
According to prosecutors, the defendant allegedly facilitated access to protected works through the website, which has for years served as a major hub for downloads of movies, television series, and music across Nigeria and other parts of Africa.
Legal representatives for the prosecution told the court that the platform’s operations violated intellectual property laws and caused financial losses to content creators and production companies. A prosecutor stated in court that “the unauthorized distribution of copyrighted materials undermines the creative industry and deprives creators of legitimate earnings from their work.”
Authorities said the investigation was triggered by complaints from copyright owners and industry stakeholders who alleged that the website hosted and made available numerous protected works without licenses or distribution agreements.
Lawyers representing the defendant, however, argued that their client did not personally upload the materials cited in the charges and maintained that the platform functioned primarily as an aggregator of links shared by third-party users. Defence counsel told the court that “the platform itself does not produce or own the materials in question and should not be held solely responsible for the actions of independent users.”
The court heard that investigators reviewed the structure and management of the website as part of efforts to determine whether the alleged infringement was carried out knowingly or through negligence in enforcing copyright protections.
Industry observers say the case is being closely watched by stakeholders in Nigeria’s entertainment sector, including filmmakers and music producers who have long raised concerns about piracy and the impact of illegal distribution on revenue.
The proceedings were adjourned to a later date for further hearings, as the court continues to review evidence and legal arguments from both the prosecution and the defence. If convicted, the charges could carry penalties under Nigeria’s copyright laws, which are designed to protect intellectual property and support the country’s growing creative industry.
