WhatsApp might exit Nigeria due to orders from the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and a substantial $220 million fine, as reported by TechCabal. Sources familiar with the situation indicate that Meta, WhatsApp’s parent company, is contemplating “withdrawing certain services” in the country.
A Meta spokesperson explained to TechCabal that complying with the FCCPC’s demands would make it technically impossible to operate WhatsApp in Nigeria or even globally. The spokesperson stated, “This order contains multiple inaccuracies and misrepresents how WhatsApp works. WhatsApp relies on limited data to run our service and keep users safe, and it would be impossible to provide WhatsApp in Nigeria or globally without Meta’s infrastructure. We are urgently appealing the order to avoid any impact on users.”
In July, the FCCPC levied a $220 million fine on Meta, accusing the company of abusing Nigerian users’ data. The commission alleged that Meta exploited its market power to enforce unfair privacy policies and collected users’ data without proper consent.
The FCCPC’s orders include:
- Ceasing the sharing of user data with other Meta companies and third parties without approval or consent.
- Providing detailed information about data collection practices.
- Restoring user control over their data usage.
This decision followed a three-year investigation into Meta’s activities from May 2021 to December 2023.
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Meta disputes the FCCPC’s claims, arguing that the fine is unjustified and pointing out procedural errors in the investigation. In its appeal, Meta presented 22 arguments for a review, criticizing the FCCPC’s directives on data use as vague and legally unfounded. The company also highlighted updates to its privacy policy that give Nigerian users greater control and suggested an opt-out option instead of the FCCPC’s demands.
Meta has resisted the FCCPC’s order to halt data sharing, asserting it cannot revert to its 2016 data-sharing policy. The company insists it has not endangered Nigerian users and contends there is confusion about data transfers to Facebook.
WhatsApp, with over 50 million users in Nigeria, is vital for communication and commerce, especially for individuals and small businesses. The potential suspension of WhatsApp in Nigeria could severely disrupt business operations and everyday communication.
Stay updated on this developing story as Meta and the FCCPC continue their legal battle over user data and privacy regulations in Nigeria.