The Nigerian digital space just witnessed a massive shake-up. According to reports, a total of 13.5 million social media accounts have been shut down over allegations of offensive content and violations of Nigeria’s Code of Practice.
Omo, this one hot oo – imagine waking up and your TikTok or Instagram just disappear like magic!
Who Gave the Order?
This revelation was made in a statement by Hadiza Umar, Director of Corporate Communications at the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).
She disclosed that social media giants including Meta (Facebook & Instagram), TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), Microsoft, and Google all carried out the action, in line with directives from Nigerian regulatory agencies:
- Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC)
- NITDA
- National Broadcasting Commission (NBC)
The Numbers That Shocked Nigerians
According to the breakdown, the clampdown led to:
- 13,597,057 accounts closed/deactivated
- 58,909,112 offensive contents removed
- 420,439 posts re-uploaded after user appeals
Omo, just look at the numbers – e be like say half of Nigerian online gist don vanish!
Why Was This Done?
The government insists the move was based on compliance with Nigeria’s Code of Practice. This code, introduced in 2022, guides how digital platforms must operate in Nigeria, especially concerning cybercrime, offensive content, fake news, nudity, revenge porn, and online harassment.
The law requires platforms to:
- Take down illegal content within 48 hours of a government or user complaint.
- Act fast against posts involving nudity, deepfakes, revenge porn, or harassment.
- Provide user information when ordered by a court of record.
- Ensure all large platforms operating in Nigeria are registered and tax-compliant.
Government’s Position
Hadiza Umar explained that the reports submitted by these platforms were a step toward creating a “safer digital environment” for Nigerians.
She added:
“This achievement reflects the Code of Practice, ensuring online safety, trust, and transparency for all users.”
But omo, Nigerians are already reacting differently – some are praising the move, while others dey fear that their accounts could be next.
Final Word
While the government claims the goal is to make the internet safer, this massive shutdown has left many people worried about freedom of expression and how much control tech giants now have over online spaces in Nigeria.
One thing is clear – the Nigerian digital streets no go ever remain the same after this.
