The Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) has filed a suit against Meta Platforms Incorporated (owners of Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram) for displaying unapproved advertisements to Nigerians.

In a statement on Tuesday by the council, ARCON said it also sued Meta’s agent, AT3 Resources Limited, in the lawsuit filed before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

The statement also noted that the council is seeking a declaration among others, that the continued publication and exposure of various advertisements directed at the Nigerian market through Facebook and Instagram platforms by Meta Platforms Incorporated without ensuring the same is vetted and approved before exposure is illegal, unlawful and a violation of the extant advertising Law in Nigeria.

The council said the continued exposure of the “unvetted” adverts has led to a loss of revenue to the federal government.

The statement read, “ARCON is seeking N30bn in sanction for the violation of the advertising laws and for loss of revenue as a result of Meta Incorporated’s continued exposure of unapproved adverts on its platforms.

“ARCON reiterates that it would not permit unethical and irresponsible advertising on the Nigeria’s advertising space.”

The council further stated that it is not regulating the online media space. Rather, its focus is on advertising and marketing communications on the online platforms in line with its establishment Act.

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