NDPC Warns Content Creators Against Unauthorised Filming of Citizens, Threatens Sanctions

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has warned content creators against taking pictures or recording videos of unsuspecting members of the public and sharing them on social media without consent. In a statement, Babatunde Bamigboye, head of legal, enforcement and regulations, said such actions violate citizens’ rights to informational self-determination under Section 37 of the 1999 Constitution and the Nigeria Data Protection Act. The commission cited the case of a content creator who reportedly stood by Lagos roadsides creating a reality show using footage of unsuspecting individuals.

Preliminary investigations showed such invasion neither serves public interest nor legitimate purpose. National Commissioner Vincent Olatunji directed social media platforms including TikTok, X, and Meta-owned services to strengthen community guidelines enforcement. Platform owners failing to address harms promptly face sanctions under the NDPA, while individual content creators may face criminal prosecution for privacy violations.

Key Points

NDPC warns content creators against filming citizens without consent.
Violates constitutional right to privacy, Nigeria Data Protection Act.
Cites Lagos creator who used unsuspecting public footage for reality show.
Platforms (TikTok, X, Meta) must strengthen guideline enforcement.
Sanctions: platform penalties, possible criminal prosecution for creators.

For content creators, a new rule applies: no more filming strangers for laughs, the NDPC draws a line between public space and private right.

Sources: NDPC Statement