TikTok sued over alleged access restrictions in northern Nigeria

TikTok users in four northern Nigerian states have faced difficulties using the app since mid-September. A digital rights group has filed a lawsuit against the company, alleging that the access restrictions violate users' rights to freedom of expression and freedom from discrimination. The dispute centers around whether TikTok intentionally restricted access in Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi and Sokoto states or if the issue arose elsewhere.

The foundation for Digital Justice and Sustainable Development filed the case in the Federal High Court in Abuja on October 5, seeking a ruling on the matter. Access problems began around September 11, and by September 14, the app was either heavily restricted or completely inaccessible in the affected states. The lawsuit seeks to determine if the alleged regional restriction is a violation of users' rights.

Before resolving the claims, the foundation must establish that TikTok caused the disruption and whether the company is responsible. TikTok has not commented on the allegations and has not provided an explanation for the reported access issues. According to the lawsuit, users experience freezing or failing videos, stalled uploads, and other non-functioning features.

The foundation claims users can regain access through VPNs, but the source of the disruption remains unresolved. The foundation argues that the restriction is not a standard content moderation issue but a geoblocking measure. They cite provisions in the Nigerian Constitution and the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights to challenge the selective exclusion of users in the four states.

The foundation requests a court declaration that the geoblocking is wrongful and unconstitutional, as well as a public apology.