FCCPC to investigate Big Tech, AI platforms over copyright concerns

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has commenced an investigation into major global technology companies and Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) platforms over allegations of anti-competitive practices, copyright infringement and the alleged exploitation of content belonging to Nigerian media organisations.

The investigation follows a directive by President Bola Tinubu after a joint petition submitted to the Presidency by the Nigerian Press Organisation (NPO), comprising the Newspaper Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria, the Nigeria Union of Journalists, the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria and the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers.

The petition alleges that major technology companies, including Meta, Alphabet, X and some Generative AI platforms, have engaged in practices that undermine fair competition, threaten the sustainability of Nigerian media organisations and violate the rights of content creators and publishers.

The Federal Government conveyed the President’s directive to the FCCPC in a letter signed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.

Reacting to the directive, FCCPC Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Tunji Bello, said the commission would conduct an independent, transparent and evidence-based investigation.

“We recognise the strategic importance of the media to Nigeria’s democracy and the equally significant role of technology in driving innovation and economic growth. Our responsibility is to objectively determine the facts and ensure that competition within the digital ecosystem remains fair, transparent, and consistent with Nigerian law,” Bello said.

He stressed that the investigation was not based on any presumption of wrongdoing against the companies involved.

“This inquiry is not directed at any entity by presumption of wrongdoing. Rather, it is an opportunity to carefully examine the facts, hear from all affected parties, and determine whether any conduct has resulted in anti-competitive outcomes or unfair business practices. Every party will be accorded a fair opportunity to present relevant information before any conclusions are reached,” he added.