The Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) has taken decisive action to protect its corporate identity by officially registering its logo as a trademark with the Liberia Intellectual Property Office (LIPO). This move comes in response to the increasing unauthorized use of the LEC logo, particularly on social media platforms, where it has been employed to disseminate misinformation and potentially defraud customers. The registration, under Registration No. LR-T-2025-65, grants LEC exclusive rights to the reproduction, distribution, and display of its logo across all media, including print, digital, broadcast, and merchandise. This legal protection empowers the LEC to pursue legal action against any unauthorized use of its intellectual property.
The LEC’s decision to register its logo underscores the growing importance of brand protection in the digital age. The proliferation of social media and online platforms has created new avenues for the misuse of corporate identities, potentially damaging reputations and eroding customer trust. By securing trademark protection, the LEC aims to safeguard its brand image and prevent the public from being misled by unauthorized entities using its logo for fraudulent purposes. This proactive measure also serves to protect LEC customers from potential scams and misinformation campaigns that could exploit the corporation’s trusted image.
The LEC’s warning against unauthorized logo use is not merely a symbolic gesture. The corporation has explicitly stated that it will pursue legal action against any individual or entity found in violation of its trademark rights. The legal basis for such action is firmly established under Liberian and international law. Specifically, Section 37 of Liberia’s Trademark Act criminalizes the willful counterfeiting of a registered trademark, with penalties including fines and imprisonment. Furthermore, the LEC’s trademark protection is reinforced by international agreements such as the World Trade Organization’s TRIPS Agreement and the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property, demonstrating the seriousness with which the corporation views this issue.
The LEC’s public announcement serves as a clear deterrent and a call for compliance. The corporation has urged all individuals and organizations currently using its logo without authorization to cease immediately. This applies to any unauthorized use, whether on social media profiles, websites, promotional materials, or merchandise. By making this public declaration, the LEC aims to prevent further infringements and mitigate potential damage to its brand. The proactive approach also allows those currently using the logo unknowingly to rectify the situation before facing legal repercussions.
While firmly asserting its rights, the LEC has also provided a pathway for legitimate use of its logo. The corporation recognizes that its logo may be required for legitimate purposes such as media coverage, public education campaigns, or promotional activities related to LEC services. To facilitate such uses, the LEC has established a clear procedure for obtaining official permission. Interested parties are required to submit a written request to the Legal Services Department of the Liberia Electricity Corporation, detailing the intended use of the logo. Alternatively, requests can be submitted electronically via email. This process ensures that any use of the LEC logo aligns with the corporation’s brand guidelines and protects its intellectual property.
The LEC’s commitment to protecting its brand identity extends beyond legal measures. The corporation has also appealed to the public for vigilance, urging them to report any suspicious or unauthorized use of its logo. This collaborative approach recognizes the importance of public awareness in combating intellectual property infringement. By empowering the public to identify and report potential misuse, the LEC creates a network of brand ambassadors who can help safeguard its image and protect consumers. This public engagement reinforces the LEC’s dedication to transparency and accountability, fostering trust and strengthening its relationship with the community it serves. The LEC’s comprehensive strategy combines legal enforcement with public education, creating a robust framework for protecting its brand and upholding its commitment to customers.
