WhatsApp said, “WhatsApp relies on limited data to run our service and keep users safe, and it would be impossible to provide WhatsApp in Nigeria, or globally, without the infrastructure of our parent company, Meta.
WhatsApp LLC has warned that a recent tribunal judgment affirming the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission’s (FCCPC) authority to penalise it and Meta Platforms Incorporated could disrupt its Nigerian operations.
In a statement sent to LEADERSHIP Sunday, WhatsApp said, “WhatsApp relies on limited data to run our service and keep users safe, and it would be impossible to provide WhatsApp in Nigeria, or globally, without the infrastructure of our parent company, Meta.”
The Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal, led by Hon. Thomas Okosun, upheld a $220 million administrative penalty and $35,000 in investigative costs against the companies, following a 38-month investigation.
The tribunal ruled largely in favour of the FCCPC, affirming its authority under the FCCPA and dismissing Meta’s objections.
FCCPC CEO, Tunji Bello, hailed the ruling as a regulatory milestone. WhatsApp, however, said it is “urgently applying to stay the order and appeal today’s decision to avoid any impact to users.”