Audu Maikori, Chief Executive Officer of one of Nigeria's biggest music outfits, Chocolate City Group, has called on those deploying music in their businesses across the country to show respect for the copyright law by obtaining the appropriate license for the use of materials from members of the Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON).

Maikori revealed that, “It is not acceptable that Nigerian music should be abused rather Nigerian organizations should embrace the culture of obtaining the right permit/license for the music they use. That way, not only will they be abiding by the law, they will also be empowering the Nigerian entertainment sector.

He said COSON is carrying out its lawful duties based on international best practices. Maikori, a key member of the Board of the organization, disclosed that, “COSON is the only licensed Collective Management Organization for music in Nigeria and I believe that it in the best interest of the music industry and for the sake of posterity, everyone needs to obey the law that has to do with music licensing.”

He warned that, “COSON does not only have the ability to bark but it also has the sharp teeth to bite. I however think that every responsible organization should avoid a fight with COSON and avoid that bite. It does not need to get to that point.

“I will like to point out that there are two parts to the breach of intellectual property; there is the civil part and there is also the criminal part which can also be pursued under the Copyright Act of Nigeria.”

The Chocolate City boss urged legal practitioners to carry out in-depth research and consult intellectual property experts before making commitments which at the end of the day are inimical to the progress of their clients.© 2014 Nollywoodgists.com