By Muhammad Baqir
In a landmark decision that reinforces Nigeria’s stance on digital sovereignty, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) tribunal has upheld a $220 million fine against Meta Platforms Inc.
The ruling comes after a marathon 38-month investigation into WhatsApp’s data practices, which regulators found violated Nigerian users’ privacy rights and consumer protection laws.
The three-member Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal, presided over by Honorable Thomas Okosun, delivered a comprehensive verdict that not only validated the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission’s (FCCPC) authority but also exposed Meta’s failure to adapt its global operations to local regulations.
The judgment revealed how WhatsApp, used by more than 30 million Nigerians, had implemented privacy policies and data practices that fell short of the country’s legal standards.
Meta’s high-powered legal team, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Prof. Gbolahan Elias, mounted a vigorous defense challenging the FCCPC’s jurisdiction and investigative procedures.
However, the tribunal systematically dismantled these arguments, affirming that regulators had properly exercised their constitutional mandate while giving Meta ample opportunity to present its case. The only concession came when judges set aside one minor procedural order, a small consolation for the tech giant facing one of Africa’s largest-ever digital privacy penalties.
FCCPC Executive Vice Chairman Tunji Bello welcomed the verdict as a watershed moment for consumer rights in Nigeria’s digital economy.
“This decision sends an unambiguous message that global platforms must respect Nigerian laws and our citizens’ rights,” Bello stated, highlighting how the case – initiated in 2020 through collaboration with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission – reflects the government’s commitment to the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of President Bola Tinubu.
The tribunal’s detailed ruling exposed multiple violations in Meta’s operations, from discriminatory data practices to exploitative terms of service, while ordering the company to pay an additional $35,000 in investigation costs.
As industry analysts speculate whether Meta will appeal or negotiate compliance, the judgment has already set a powerful precedent that other African regulators may follow in holding Big Tech accountable.
With this decision, Nigeria has not only defended its digital sovereignty but also positioned itself as a regional leader in technology governance.
The absence of immediate response from Meta headquarters speaks volumes about the complex calculations the company now faces in one of its most important African markets, where the balance between global standards and local compliance has suddenly become much more precarious.
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