Meta Platforms Incorporated (the company behind the platforms for Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp) and its representative, AT3 Resources Limited, are being sued by the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria for breaking the law and suffering a loss of revenue.

The Federal High Court, Abuja Judicial Division received the complaint.

The top regulatory body for Nigeria's advertising ecosystem said in a statement on Tuesday that ARCON is seeking a declaration that, among other things, Meta Platforms Incorporated's continued publication and exposure of various advertisements targeted at the Nigerian market through Facebook and Instagram platforms without making sure they are vetted and approved before exposure is illegal, unlawful, and a violation of the country's current advertising laws.

According to ARCON, Meta Platforms Incorporated's continued exposure of unscreened advertisements cost the federal government money.

Due to Meta Incorporated's continued exposure of unapproved advertisements on its platforms, ARCON is requesting N30bn in sanctions for the violation of the advertising laws and for lost revenue.

The statement read in part, “ARCON reiterates that it would not permit unethical and irresponsible advertising in Nigeria’s advertising space.”

According to ARCON, the Council 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.