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Accounts Shutdown: Reactions Trail Deletion of Nigerians’ Social Media Accounts |
Millions of Nigerians face account shutdowns as social media platforms delete 13.6 million accounts. Learn why accounts were deactivated and reactions.
The recent shutdown of Nigerians’ social media accounts has sparked widespread reactions across the country. According to official reports, 13.6 million accounts were deactivated by major platforms such as Google, Microsoft, and TikTok for allegedly violating Nigeria’s digital regulations. This mass deletion was outlined in the Code of Practice 2024 Compliance Report, which was submitted to the Federal Government.
Why Millions of Accounts Were Deleted
The Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms, jointly issued by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), sets strict rules for online platforms.
In its latest compliance report:
- 58.9 million offensive contents were removed by platforms
- 754,629 complaints were officially registered
- 420,439 posts were taken down and later re-uploaded following user appeals
According to NITDA’s Director of Corporate Communications, Hajiya Hadiza Umar, these actions reflect platforms’ efforts to comply with Nigerian laws while prioritizing user safety.
The Code of Practice Explained
The Code of Practice, first introduced in June 2022, was designed to tackle harmful online activities such as:
- Dissemination of false or misleading information
- Content that threatens national security or public peace
- Promotion of cyber-bullying, revenge porn, or child abuse material
It also requires large service platforms (LSPs) with over one million Nigerian users to:
- Register and incorporate in Nigeria
- Pay relevant taxes
- Appoint local representatives for accountability
Platforms that fail to comply may face fines of up to ₦500,000 or imprisonment.
Reactions to the Shutdown
Support for the Code
Some legal experts, such as Senior Advocate of Nigeria Oyetola Muyiwa Atoyebi (SAN), believe the code is a necessary step to curb online bullying and protect digital spaces. He noted that users can now rely on clear measures to report harmful activities online.
Concerns About Freedom of Expression
Others, however, fear the rules give the government too much power. Legal analyst Misbahu Kolapo argued that the definition of “harmful content” is vague and could undermine freedom of expression and privacy rights.
This concern is not unfounded, as past government actions, such as the suspension of Twitter (now X) in 2021, revealed tensions between free speech and regulation.
Missing Critics Raise Concerns
The debate over account shutdowns is further complicated by reports of social media critics disappearing after making critical posts. For instance:
- Anas Muhammad Game, a Katsina-based critic, has been missing for four weeks after posting about insecurity in the state.
- Abu Abubakar Idris (Dadiyata) went missing in 2019 after making similar posts.
These incidents raise questions about the balance between regulation and the protection of fundamental rights.
International Context
Globally, social media regulations are becoming more common. For example, the United States now requires visa applicants to disclose their social media handles used over the last five years as part of security screening (US State Department). This reflects a wider trend of governments tightening control over online platforms.
Conclusion
The shutdown of 13.6 million Nigerians’ social media accounts highlights the growing tension between digital regulation, free expression, and online safety. While the government emphasizes protecting users from harmful content, critics argue that the rules may threaten privacy and human rights.
As Nigeria’s digital ecosystem evolves, sustained dialogue between regulators, tech companies, and civil society will be crucial in balancing safety with freedom of speech
