The Lagos Federal High Court has temporarily barred ARCON from claiming $38.55 million from Facebook, referencing potential constitutional violations and fair hearing issues. A hearing is set for February 20, 2025.
The Federal High Court in Lagos has issued a temporary injunction preventing the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) from enforcing a demand of $38.55 million (NGN60 billion) from Facebook Nigeria Operations Limited. This decision, rendered by Justice Yellim Bogoro on December 12, 2024, followed an ex parte motion filed by Facebook which sought relief from ARCON’s alleged violations. The injunction halts ARCON’s Notice of Violation and any potential criminal proceedings while awaiting a hearing scheduled for February 20, 2025. Facebook contends that the ARCON notice is unconstitutional and has violated its right to fair hearing, prompting this legal challenge.
The ongoing legal dispute between Facebook and the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria has garnered significant attention due to the substantial amount demanded by ARCON in alleged fines. This situation arises in a broader context of increasing regulation and scrutiny of social media platforms in Nigeria, where compliance with local advertising laws is fiercely enforced. Facebook’s counter-legal actions represent a pushback not only against this specific demand but also against what it perceives as unconstitutional practices regarding due process in regulatory enforcement.
In summary, the Federal High Court’s ruling provides temporary relief to Facebook, prohibiting ARCON from enforcing its financial demand and initiating legal actions against the platform. This case emphasizes the ongoing tensions between digital companies and regulatory bodies in Nigeria, raising questions about constitutional rights and fair hearing amid evolving digital landscapes. The upcoming hearing in February will further clarify the legal standing of ARCON’s actions and Facebook’s challenges to them.
Original Source: news.bitcoin.com
