The Federal Government has closed down no fewer than 13,597,057 social media accounts belonging to users who violated the Code of Practice 2024 with offensive content on platforms such as TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter).
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The action was revealed in the Code of Practice 2024 Compliance Report, submitted to the government by promoters of interactive computer service platforms, including Google, Microsoft, and TikTok.
The Code of Practice was jointly issued by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC).
The 2024 report, titled “Code of Practice 2024 Compliance Report Highlights Social Media Platforms’ Efforts on Online Harm Protection”, outlined key measures taken by platforms to safeguard users.
According to a statement signed on Wednesday by NITDA’s Director of Corporate Communications and Media Relations, Hajiya Hadiza Umar, a total of 58,909,112 offensive contents were pulled down from various platforms.
She explained that 754,629 complaints were registered by users during the period, while 420,439 contents were taken down and later reinstated following successful appeals.
“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,” Umar stated.
She added that the submission of the reports demonstrates the platforms’ commitment to a safer and more responsible digital environment for Nigerians.
The Code of Practice mandates that large service platforms operating in Nigeria must be registered in the country, comply with relevant laws, and fulfill their tax obligations, while also ensuring user safety.
While commending the platforms for their efforts, NITDA stressed the need for sustained collaboration among industry players, civil society, and regulators to further strengthen user safety, enhance digital literacy, and promote transparency in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
