The federal government’s Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) has instituted a suit against Meta Platforms Incorporated (owners of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp platforms) and its agent AT3 Resources Limited at the Federal High Court, Abuja Judicial Division.
ARCON is seeking a declaration among others that the continued publication and exposure of various advertisements directed at the Nigerian market through Facebook and Instagram platforms by Meta Platforms Incorporated without ensuring same is vetted and approved before exposure is illegal, unlawful and a violation of the extant advertising Law in Nigeria.
ARCON stated that Meta Platforms Incorporated’s continued exposure of unvetted adverts has also led to the loss of revenue to the Federal Government.
ARCON is seeking N30b in sanction for violating the advertising laws and for loss of revenue due to Meta Incorporated’s continued exposure of unapproved adverts on its platforms.
ARCON reiterate that it would not permit unethical and irresponsible advertising in Nigeria’s advertising space.
ARCON further stated that it’s not regulating the online media space but rather advertisement, advertising, and marketing communications on the online platforms in line with its establishment Act.
