WhatsApp says it will appeal a ruling that upheld a $220 million fine by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) in Nigeria.
The Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal gave its final ruling on Friday. It ordered WhatsApp and its parent company, Meta Platforms Inc., to pay the full fine. The tribunal also asked them to pay an extra $35,000 to cover the cost of the FCCPC’s investigation.
WhatsApp Says Ruling Is Wrong
In a statement released on Saturday in Lagos, WhatsApp said it disagrees with the ruling. The company said the order misunderstands how WhatsApp works.
“We are urgently applying to stay the order and appeal today’s decision to avoid any impact to users,” WhatsApp said.
The company also explained that it uses very limited data to run its services and keep users safe. It added that it cannot provide its services in Nigeria or anywhere else without the help of its parent company, Meta.
Legal Battle Could Affect WhatsApp in Nigeria
The fine is based on claims that WhatsApp and Meta used unfair data practices that hurt Nigerian users. WhatsApp denies the claims and says the FCCPC made several errors in its report.
Nigeria is one of WhatsApp’s largest markets in Africa. This legal case could have a big impact on how the company operates in the country.
WhatsApp says it will continue to follow the law and protect its users. It also says it will fight the ruling to avoid service disruptions.
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