A United Kingdom, UK-based Nigerian tech expert, Shalom Bamigboye has described the recent fine against Meta by the Federal Consumer Protection Commission, FCCPC, as a turning point in Nigerian tech regulation.
DAILY POST reports that FCCPC on July 19, announced a $220 million fine against Meta Platforms Inc., the parent company of WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram.
Meta was accused of unauthorized appropriation of personal data, especially via WhatsApp, without consent of users.
FCCPC also alleged that Meta was involved in other discriminatory practices against Nigerian users.
Angered by the fine, WhatsApp on August 1, threatened to suspend its operations in the country.
Speaking on the matter, Bamigboye, who addressed journalists virtually on Tuesday, urged Nigerians to move beyond binary thinking and recognize the gravity of the accusations against Meta.
“Nigerians must move beyond binary thinking and recognize the gravity of the accusations against Meta. Despite grievances with public institutions, it is crucial to understand that Meta must comply with Nigerian laws.
“With WhatsApp being the most widely used social media platform in Nigeria, boasting close to 95% penetration among internet users, the implications of this case are profound.
“Protecting the privacy rights of Nigerian citizens is paramount. However, with WhatsApp hinting at the possibility of discontinuing services in Nigeria, a cautious approach is essential.
“A service disruption could have counterproductive consequences, affecting millions of users,” Bamigboye said.