$220m: FCCPC Replies WhatsApp Over Nigeria Exit Threat

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has responded to Meta’s recent threat to withdraw WhatsApp services from Nigeria, characterizing it as an attempt to sway public opinion and coerce the commission into reversing its decision. The response follows the FCCPC’s imposition of a $220 million fine on Meta Platforms Inc. for unauthorized data appropriation and discriminatory practices.

On July 19, 2024, the FCCPC penalized Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram, for violating Nigerian laws by using personal data without user consent and treating Nigerian users unfairly compared to other jurisdictions. The commission emphasized that the fine and the associated order were legitimate and necessary for ensuring a fair digital market.

Meta, via WhatsApp, expressed concern that the fine could disrupt its services in Nigeria, stating, “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.” The company also claimed that the FCCPC’s order contained inaccuracies and misrepresented how the platform operates, and announced plans to appeal the decision.

In a statement on its official X account, the FCCPC countered these claims, accusing Meta of abusing its dominant market position and failing to comply with Nigerian standards. The commission stated that the order was a necessary measure to protect Nigerian consumers and ensure that Meta’s practices align with local laws.

“The suggestion that WhatsApp may be forced to exit Nigeria due to the FCCPC’s decision appears to be a strategic ploy to influence public opinion and pressure the commission,” the FCCPC said. It reiterated that the $220 million penalty was a deterrent against future violations and a step toward greater accountability in the digital market.

The FCCPC further stressed that similar regulatory actions in other countries have not led to companies withdrawing from those markets. The commission concluded by affirming its commitment to enforcing consumer protection and data privacy standards in Nigeria, regardless of Meta’s position.

This development comes as Meta recently took action against 63,000 Nigerian Facebook accounts involved in financial sextortion, highlighting ongoing issues related to the platform’s management of content and user data.