FCCPC Sanctions Meta, WhatsApp Over Data Privacy Violations

The FCCPC investigated Meta Platforms and WhatsApp (collectively “Meta Parties”) for allegedly breaching the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) and the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR). The Commission found that the Meta Parties repeatedly violated the FCCPA and NDPR by denying Nigerians control over their personal data, sharing user data without authorization, discriminating against Nigerian users, and abusing their market dominance with unfair privacy policies.

WhatsApp’s suggestion that it may exit Nigeria following the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission’s (FCCPC) recent order seems to be a strategic maneuver aimed at swaying public opinion and pressuring the FCCPC to reconsider its decision.

In response, the FCCPC issued a final order requiring the Meta Parties to comply with Nigerian laws, respect consumer rights, and halt exploitative practices. Additionally, the Commission imposed a $220 million penalty to ensure accountability and deter future violations.

The FCCPC’s actions are driven by legitimate concerns about consumer protection and data privacy, reflecting similar regulatory measures in other countries without necessitating companies’ market exits. Nigeria’s case aims to promote a fairer digital market and uphold consumer rights.