Tinubu Orders Probe Into Big Tech Over Alleged Exploitation of Nigerian Media

Tinubu orders probe into Big Tech after President Bola Tinubu directed the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) to investigate major global technology companies and Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) platforms over allegations of anti-competitive practices and the unlawful use of content belonging to Nigerian media organisations.

The directive followed a joint petition submitted to the Presidency by the Nigerian Press Organisation (NPO), which accused leading technology firms of unfair market conduct.

In a statement issued on Monday, FCCPC Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, said the investigation would examine allegations against Meta, Alphabet, the parent company of Google, X, formerly Twitter, and several Generative AI platforms operating in Nigeria.

According to the commission, the companies face allegations of exploiting news content without authorisation and engaging in practices that could undermine fair competition in the country’s media sector.

Furthermore, the FCCPC said the investigation was launched on President Tinubu’s directive following concerns raised by Nigerian media organisations. The commission added that the probe would determine whether the companies breached Nigeria’s competition and consumer protection laws.

The outcome of the investigation could shape how global technology companies and AI platforms operate in Nigeria, particularly in relation to digital news content and competition in the media industry.