The Nigerian government and Meta Platforms Inc., the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, have agreed to settle a $32.8 million fine imposed on Meta for alleged data privacy violations involving Nigerian users out of court.
The settlement discussions have advanced appreciably, and both parties are eager to resolve the matter amicably.
According to Adeola Adedipe, Meta’s lawyer, “The draft terms of settlement have been exchanged,” and the parties are now waiting to return with settlement terms for adoption as a consent judgment. The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) had fined Meta $32.8 million for allegedly breaching Nigeria’s Data Protection Act.
The commission accused Meta of using Nigerians’ personal data for behavioral advertising without consent, failing to file its 2022 audit, transferring data abroad, and processing non-users’ information. Meta rejected the findings and process, arguing that it was denied a fair hearing and due process.
Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja encouraged settlement and adjourned the matter until October 31 for either a ruling or adoption of settlement terms. “The court encouraged settlement and was inclined not to deliver the ruling today,” the judge said.
The settlement is a welcome development for both parties, who are eager to put the matter behind them. The case highlights the importance of data protection and privacy in Nigeria, and the need for companies to comply with local laws and regulations.