By Nkechi Eze
In a recent development, WhatsApp has claimed that it may be forced to exit Nigeria due to the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission’s (FCCPC) order. However, experts believe this might be a strategic move to garner negative public reaction and pressure the FCCPC to reconsider its decision.
Recall that the FCCPC had investigated Meta Platforms and WhatsApp (jointly referred to as “Meta Parties”) for allegedly violating the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) and the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR). The commission found that Meta engaged in multiple infringements, including denying Nigerians control over their personal data, transferring user data without authorization, and abusing their dominant market position.
According to an official signed statement made available to journalists by the Director, cooperate affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, this is not the first time Meta has faced penalties for similar breaches. The company was fined $1.5 billion in Texas and $1.3 billion for violating EU data privacy rules.
Meta has also faced penalties in India, South Korea, France, and Australia, yet never threatened to exit those countries.
The FCCPC’s final order requires Meta to comply with Nigerian law, stop exploiting consumers, and change its practices to meet Nigerian standards. The commission remains committed to consumer protection and data privacy, ensuring a fairer digital market in Nigeria.
Meta’s threat to exit Nigeria does not absolve them of liabilities for the outcome of a judicial process. The FCCPC’s decision has sparked a debate about corporate accountability and the protection of consumer rights in the digital age.
