WhatsApp may leave Nigeria after $220 million fine
Following Nigeria’s Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) $220 million fine imposed on WhatsApp for a data privacy violation, there are fears WhatsApp may suspend operations in the country.
Those familiar with the matter told Tech Cabal that Meta, the parent company for WhatsApp is considering “withdrawing certain services” in Nigeria.
The implications of such a move is huge considering that Nigeria has 51 million WhatsApp users.
WhatsApp’s withdrawal from Nigeria would have far-reaching effects on users and proprietors of small businesses as Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp are the main platforms used by SMEs to connect with potential clients.
FCCPC demanded that WhatsApp cease sharing user data with other Facebook companies and outside parties without express consent, in addition to the substantial penalties.
Additionally, the social media platform needs to give users back control over how their data is used and disclose information regarding data collecting.
The FCCPC probe found WhatsApp threatened to delete user accounts and collected excessive data.
However, Meta has appealed the fine.
