The Nigerian Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal has reserved its judgment concerning the appeal filed by Meta Platforms and WhatsApp against a $220 million fine imposed by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC). The fine was levied due to alleged discriminatory practices in Nigeria. The tribunal’s panel, led by Thomas Okosun, heard arguments from both sides, with Meta’s legal team, headed by Professor Gbolahan Elias, contending that the FCCPC’s actions were unjust and procedurally flawed.
In their appeal, Meta and WhatsApp cited 22 reasons for contesting the fine, including vague directives and unreasonable data-sharing orders. They argued that the penalties were imposed without adequate opportunity to understand or respond to the calculation of the fine, claiming that the FCCPC’s requirements were technically unfeasible and unsupported by Nigerian law. Conversely, the FCCPC defended the penalty, stating it aimed to address the alleged discriminatory practices rather than simply impose a financial punishment.
The tribunal proceedings also featured discussions about the FCCPC’s authority and the necessity for a fair hearing. Legal representatives for both sides presented their cases, with the FCCPC asserting that the fine was justified based on evidence of exploitative practices by Meta. The tribunal’s decision on the matter will be communicated to the parties involved at a later date, leaving the future of Meta and WhatsApp’s operations in Nigeria hanging in the balance.
About the Author
