FG shuts 13m social media accounts over offensive content

• NITDA confirmed 58.9 million offensive posts were removed from multiple platforms in a coordinated global enforcement operation.
• More than 754,000 complaints were recorded, showing growing user involvement in monitoring offensive and harmful digital content.

More than 13 million social media accounts have been shut down in Nigeria for breaking rules on offensive content.

The federal government said the accounts were taken off platforms including TikTok, Facebook, Instagram and X.

Officials explained that the enforcement followed the Code of Practice 2024, which regulates interactive computer service platforms operating in Nigeria.

The code is overseen by the Nigerian Communications Commission, the National Information Technology Development Agency, and the National Broadcasting Commission (NITDA).

The NITDA’s spokesperson, Hadiza Umar, on Wednesday, disclosed that nearly 59 million offensive posts were removed during the compliance exercise.

She praised platforms such as Google, Microsoft and TikTok for cooperating with regulators to keep users safe online.

Umar said more than 754,000 complaints were lodged by users, with over 420,000 contents removed and later restored after appeals.

“The compliance reports provide valuable insights into the platforms’ efforts to address user safety concerns in line with the code of practice and the platforms’ community guidelines,” she noted.

She added that filing such reports is “a significant step towards fostering a safer and responsible digital environment for Nigerian users.”

According to her, the measures also show the companies’ commitment to ensuring trust and security in the country’s online space.

She explained that the code requires major platforms to register in Nigeria, obey tax laws and strengthen safety rules.

“While NITDA acknowledges these commendable efforts, we emphasise that building a safer digital space requires sustained collaboration and engagement among all stakeholders,” Umar added.

She said the agency would continue to work with industry, civil society and regulators to promote transparency and digital literacy.