FG Shuts Down Over 13.5 Million Social Media Accounts
The Federal Government, through the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has shut down 13,597,057 social media accounts on platforms including TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) for posting offensive content and breaching Nigeria’s Code of Practice for online platforms.
NITDA noted that the enforcement action followed the submission of the 2024 Compliance Report by major service providers such as Google, Microsoft, and TikTok.
The government action was contained in a Code of Practice 2024 Compliance Report submitted to the government by promoters of interactive computer service platforms such as Google, Microsoft, and TikTok, among others.
The Code of Practice was issued jointly by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC).
The agency commended the platforms for their cooperation and adherence to Nigeria’s regulations, which were developed in collaboration with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC).
The Director of Corporate Communications and Media Relations of NITDA, Hajiya Hadiza Umar, in a statement on Wednesday, gave the highlights of the 2024 Compliance Report to include: Registered complaints: 754,629, Content removed: 58,909,112, Content reuploaded after appeal: 420,439, Accounts shut down/deactivated: 13,597,057.
NITDA said the figures demonstrate the platforms’ efforts to protect users and remove harmful content in line with national laws. The agency reiterated that all online platforms operating in Nigeria must be locally registered, comply with tax requirements, and adhere to the Code of Practice.
NITDA added that it will continue working with industry stakeholders, civil society, and regulators to promote user safety, digital literacy, and transparency across Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
“The compliance reports provide valuable insights into the platforms’ efforts to address user safety concerns in line with the Code of Practice and the platforms’ community guidelines,” she said.
Hajiya Umar further added that, “The submission of these reports marks a significant step towards fostering a safer and responsible digital environment for Nigerian users.
“It also demonstrates the platforms’ commitment to ensuring a secure and trustworthy online environment for all.
“This achievement reflects the provisions of the Code of Practice, which mandates that large service platforms are registered in Nigeria and comply with relevant laws, including the fulfilment of their tax obligation, while reinforcing the commitment to online safety for Nigerians.
“While NITDA acknowledges these commendable efforts, we emphasise that building a safer digital space requires sustained collaboration and engagement among all stakeholders.
“We remain committed to working with industry players, civil society, and regulatory partners to further strengthen user safety measures, enhance digital literacy, and promote trust and transparency in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.”
Olamilekan Adigun is a graduate of Mass Communication with years of experience in journalism embedded in uncovering human interest stories. He also prioritises accuracy and factual reportage of issues.
