The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) to investigate major global technology companies over alleged privacy violations, algorithmic manipulation and anti-competitive practices affecting Nigeria\u2019s media and digital economy.<\/p>\n
In a complaint dated February 28, 2026, and signed by its Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP accused companies including Google, Meta Platforms (Facebook), Apple, Microsoft (Bing), X Corp. (formerly Twitter), TikTok, Amazon and YouTube of using opaque algorithms and dominant market positions in ways that harm Nigerian consumers, businesses, media organisations and democratic processes.<\/p>\n
The organisation called on the FCCPC to convene a public hearing to examine allegations of algorithmic discrimination, abuse of market dominance, data exploitation and broader consumer harm.<\/p>\n
Addressing the Commission\u2019s Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Tunji Bello, SERAP argued that the tech giants wield enormous influence over Nigeria\u2019s digital economy and information ecosystem while allegedly evading adequate accountability.<\/p>\n
According to the group, opaque algorithms, offshore revenue extraction and undisclosed data practices enable the platforms to shape public discourse and market competition without sufficient transparency or oversight.<\/p>\n
SERAP described the conduct of dominant digital platforms as not only economic concerns but also human rights issues impacting media plurality, consumer protection, privacy, freedom of expression and access to information.<\/p>\n
The organisation warned that failure by the FCCPC to act promptly could compel it to take appropriate legal steps in the public interest.<\/p>\n
Citing reported investigations by the South African Competition Commission into Google, SERAP urged the Nigerian regulator to adopt similar measures, including algorithmic transparency and possible monetary remedies where necessary.<\/p>\n
The group further alleged that large-scale data collection, retention and monetisation under complex consent mechanisms may interfere with privacy rights and distort Nigeria\u2019s digital economy.<\/p>\n
It expressed concern that Nigerian media companies and content creators face algorithmic suppression, reduced visibility and revenue diversion to foreign platforms, leading to shrinking newsrooms, closure of print titles and the emergence of news deserts.<\/p>\n
SERAP also raised concerns that opaque moderation systems and data-driven micro-targeting could affect the integrity of Nigeria\u2019s forthcoming elections by influencing voter exposure to information without adequate safeguards.<\/p>\n
The organisation maintained that if proven, the allegations could amount to violations of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, relevant constitutional provisions and international human rights standards.<\/p>\n
It therefore urged the FCCPC to launch a comprehensive investigation, summon relevant persons and documents, mandate greater transparency in ranking and advertising systems, ensure equitable treatment of Nigerian content, impose sanctions where violations are established and grant appropriate remedies to protect consumers and competition.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"