NCC Cracks Down on Unlicensed DJs

NCC Cracks Down on Unlicensed DJs, The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has issued a stern warning to Disc Jockeys (DJs) across the country, mandating them to obtain proper licenses before publicly performing copyrighted music. In a sweeping move to protect intellectual property rights, the NCC announced that any DJ found guilty of unauthorized use of musical works will face severe penalties, including a N1 million fine or a five-year jail term.

According to the NCC Director-General, Dr. John Asein, the crackdown is aimed at curbing the widespread unauthorized use of protected music at events, clubs, lounges, weddings, and other public gatherings. He stated that while DJs play a crucial role in promoting music and culture, their work must not come at the expense of creators’ rights. Emphasizing that the enforcement aligns with the Copyright Act of 2022, which strengthens penalties for intellectual property violations.

“Music creators deserve to be compensated fairly for the use of their intellectual property. DJs and event organizers must obtain appropriate licenses from collective management organizations (CMOs) such as COSON before using these works in public,” said Dr. Asein.

Key Points of the Directive:

1. Licensing Requirement: DJs must obtain a Public Performance License from copyright collective management organizations (CMOs) like the Musical Copyright Society of Nigeria (MCSN) or COSON (Copyright Society of Nigeria) before playing songs at events, clubs, or public venues.
2. Penalties for Non-Compliance:
   • First-time offenders: N500,000 fine.
   • Repeat offenders: Up to N1 million fine or 5 years imprisonment.
3. Venue Liability: Event centers, clubs, and bars hosting unlicensed DJs may also face sanctions, including shutdowns.

Why the Crackdown?

The NCC’s move comes after years of complaints from artists, producers, and record labels about lost revenue due to unauthorized public performances. With Nigeria’s entertainment industry generating billions annually, the government is pushing for stricter enforcement to ensure creators are fairly compensated.

Dr. Asein stated:
“Creators invest time and resources into making music, and they deserve to benefit from their work. Unlicensed public performances are illegal and deprive artists of their rightful earnings. This enforcement is non-negotiable.”

Industry Reactions

• Artists & Producers: Many, including Davido, Burna Boy, and Don Jazzy, have applauded the move, calling it “long overdue.”
• DJs’ Concerns: Some DJs argue that licensing fees are too high for small-scale operators. Popular DJ Spinall urged the NCC to consider flexible payment plans for upcoming DJs.
• Event Organizers: Fear disruptions if DJs boycott events over licensing costs.

How DJs Can Comply

The NCC has directed DJs to:

1. Register with approved CMOs.
2. Pay annual licensing fees (varies based on usage scale).
3. Keep records of licensed tracks for verification.

What’s Next?

The NCC has set up a special enforcement unit to monitor compliance, with raids expected in nightclubs, weddings, and public events. Legal experts advise DJs to regularize their status immediately to avoid penalties.

Final Word

This crackdown marks a major shift in Nigeria’s entertainment industry, aiming to balance creative rights with business realities. While artists celebrate, DJs must adapt—or risk hefty fines and jail time. READ ALSO:OPay Launches N1.2B Scholarship