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New kid on block, TStv hits troubled waters, accused of copyright

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New kid on block, TStv hits troubled waters, accused of copyright

TELCOMM SATELLITE TV (TStv) is already swimming in troubled waters days after its official launch with two international content providers, Turner Broadcasting System Europe Limited and belN accusing it of copyright infringement.

Reports say the two international content providers are accusing TStv of infringing their exclusive distribution rights to certain television programmes on their belt.

However, TStv has swiftly replied the claims by the two content providers on its Facebook page, saying the claims by the two TV stations contained in a letter is fake and designed to create a bias against their product in the minds of Nigerians.

TStv stated: “We are not unaware of the messages circulating the social media regarding letters from belN Sports and Turner respectively. We wish to inform Nigerians once again that the letters being circulated are fake. They were designed primarily to bias Nigerians. Kindly disregard the said frivolous letters!”

In the said letter sent to the the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) dated September 27, Turner Broadcasting System, claimed exclusive distribution rights to the CNN channel in English.

It said: “In this respect, the distribution and broadcast of the above-mentioned channel in Africa including in Nigeria has to be authorised by us in advance.

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“The distribution and broadcast of this channel without authorisation will infringe our intellectual property rights and constitute acts of piracy.

“This would amount to an unlawful use, which will infringe the rights and harm the interests of our company, and cause us a substantial prejudice.

“In this context, we invite you to undertake in writing not to distribute CNN, and not to use or reproduce the channels’ trademarks on any advertising or promotional material.

“In the absence of your confirmation should you include CNN within your channel line- up we will take the necessary and appropriate measures and bring civil or criminal judicial actions in order to protect our rights.”

On its part, its September 28 letter to the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), beIN claimed there was no contractual agreement between it and TStv that would give the company the license to beam its contents.

It said: “We have become aware that your company TSTV intends to launch a pay television service to subscribers in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa generally.
Information about this service is contained on the website at htt-z tstvafrica.cbm.”

The Qatar based firm said it invests substantial sums in acquiring those rights, “which are highly valuable.”

“Other parties are not permitted to copy and re-broadcast belN Content without express authorisation.

“belN is also the owner of trademarks and other rights in the name belN and associated branding (‘belN Trademarks’). Other parties are not permitted to use belN Trademarks without express authorization.”

 

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