- Nigerian human rights advocate and senior lawyer Femi Falana has initiated a $5 million lawsuit against Meta Platforms Inc., alleging the tech giant violated his privacy rights.
The case, filed in a Nigerian court, centers on Meta’s alleged publication of unauthorized content linking Falana to a medical condition.
Falana claims this action breaches Nigeria’s constitutional and data protection laws, marking a pivotal moment in digital accountability debates across Africa.
Falana’s legal team, led by lawyer Olumide Babalola, asserts that Meta shared images and audio clips falsely associating him with “Prostatitis” via its platforms. These posts, attributed to the “AfriCare Health Center,” allegedly exploited Falana’s identity without consent.
The lawsuit cites Section 37 of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, which safeguards citizens’ privacy, alongside provisions in the 2023 Data Protection Act.
The latter law, enacted to align Nigeria with global data security standards, imposes strict penalties for unauthorized data handling.
Falana’s case also invokes the Fundamental Rights Enforcement Procedure Rules of 2009, emphasizing the urgency of addressing digital privacy violations.
Corporate Accountability
During an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Falana stressed the need for tech companies to uphold ethical standards.
“No entity is above the law,” he said. “If platforms allow harmful content to spread unchecked, they must face consequences.”
His remarks reflect growing concerns about social media’s role in amplifying misinformation and defamation.
Falana clarified that his goal is not to criminalize free expression but to push for civil accountability.
“Substantial fines would compel companies to improve content moderation systems,” he added.
This approach aligns with global trends, such as the EU’s Digital Services Act, which mandates stricter oversight of online platforms.
The lawsuit highlights Nigeria’s evolving stance on tech governance.
With over 36 million Facebook users in Nigeria—Meta’s largest African market – the outcome could set a precedent for how multinational platforms operate in the region.
Legal experts note that Falana’s use of the 2023 Data Protection Act signals a shift toward leveraging modern statutes to address digital harms.
Falana also urged lawmakers to strengthen regulatory frameworks.
“Civil remedies, not criminal penalties, can balance free speech and privacy,” he said.
His stance resonates with advocacy groups like Privacy International, which argue that corporate accountability is critical in safeguarding digital rights.
As the case proceeds, observers will monitor how Nigerian courts interpret newly enacted data laws. A ruling against Meta could inspire similar actions across Africa, where digital rights litigation remains nascent.
For now, Falana’s lawsuit underscores the tension between technological innovation and individual privacy—a debate shaping legal landscapes worldwide.