"This order contains many inaccuracies and misrepresents how WhatsApp operates. WhatsApp relies on limited data to operate its services and keep users safe, and without Meta's infrastructure, it would be impossible for us to operate and deliver WhatsApp in Nigeria. We are urgently appealing this order to avoid impacting our users," the spokesperson said. 


In July, the FCCPC fined Meta $220 million (more than ₦300 billion) for allegedly misusing Nigerian users' data. The commission alleged that Meta abused its market power to enforce exploitative privacy policies and collect user data without proper consent. 


It ordered WhatsApp to stop sharing user data with other Meta companies and third parties without permission or consent. In addition, WhatsApp must provide information about data collection and restore control over data use to users. 


The decision came after a three-year investigation into Meta's conduct and operations from May 2021 to December 2023. 


Meta disputed the FCCPC's allegations, disagreed with the sentence and fine, and appealed. In its appeal, Meta filed 22 arguments for review and argued that the FCCPC's fine was unjust, citing procedural errors in the investigation and legally unsupportable allegations. 

WhatsApp argued that the FCCPC's data usage policy is vague and lacks a solid legal basis. The company said it has updated its privacy policy to give Nigerian users more control and proposed an opt-out option in lieu of the FCCPC's request. 


Meta opposed the FCCPC's order to stop sharing user information, arguing that it cannot revert to its 2016 data sharing policy. The company argues that it did not threaten Nigerian users, but rather there was confusion over data transfer to Facebook. 


WhatsApp is used by more than 50 million people in Nigeria, including individuals and small businesses, and plays a key role in communication and commerce. If WhatsApp is likely to be blocked in Nigeria, it could have a major impact on business operations.