Laws and Rights: Analysing the Legal Regime of Character Merchandising in Nigeria
Keywords:
Character Merchandising, Property Rights, Personality Rights, Publicity Rights, Privacy Rights, Intellectual Property RightsAbstract
Character merchandising has grown exponentially with the advancement in technology and
social media platforms. This is apparent in the increased rate of the commercial exploitation of
the persona of a character. This article gives an in-depth knowledge into the legal framework of
character merchandising in Nigeria by analysing the various rights embedded in the practice of
character merchandising and the relevant national and international legal instruments governing
same. The study employs a doctrinal approach by analysing and examining statute, case laws and
exploring literature such as journals, articles, seminar papers. This article examines the existing
legal regime governing the practice of character merchandising in Nigeria whilst recommending
the need for the establishment of a unified sui generis legislation that will enhance and develop
the practice of character merchandising in Nigeria.
