Importance of the Protection of Expression of Folklore to the Society

Abstract

Expression of folklore is an important aspect of cultural heritage due to its role in the cultural landscape, contributing to identity, education, history, social cohesion, and artistic creativity. The article articulated the extent of legal protection Folklore enjoyed in Nigeria owing to the diverse nature of the people. The methodology adopted in the article is doctrinal given the protection accorded Folklore in Nigeria under the Copy Right Act 2022. It is found that the copyright protection of expression of folklore in Nigeria does not inure for the benefit of an individual to exploit but for the protection of a community whose folklore is registered with the Copyright Commission. Again, should there be a violation, it is only the Copy Right 
Commission that is legally empowered to seek redress on behalf of the complainant. It is concluded that if the expression of folklore is to be taken seriously the Nigerian Copy Right Law should be amended to enable individuals or a community whose right is violated concerning folklore to seek redress instead of waiting for the Copy Right Commission to redress on behalf of an aggrieved community.