SERAP Calls for FCCPC Probe into Major Tech Companies

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) to investigate major technology companies, including Google, Meta, Facebook, Apple, Microsoft, Bing, Twitter, TikTok, Amazon, and YouTube, over allegations of undermining Nigerian media businesses and consumer rights. SERAP's Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, emphasized the need for urgent measures to prevent unfair market practices influenced by opaque algorithms.

The organization highlighted that millions of Nigerians rely on these platforms for information and business opportunities, yet they often escape accountability for the harms caused by their algorithms. SERAP expressed concerns about the potential impact of these practices on privacy rights and media freedom, urging the FCCPC to convene public hearings to gather evidence and ensure compliance with Nigerian law and international standards.

The call for investigation references similar actions taken by the South African Competition Commission against Google for systematic bias against local media content.