Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Femi Falana has filed a $5 million (£3.95 million) lawsuit against Meta Platforms Inc. at a Lagos High Court, alleging an invasion of privacy.
Through his lawyer, Olumide Babalola, Falana claims that Meta published a video falsely stating he had been suffering from prostatitis for 16 years. He argues this violates his privacy rights under Section 37 of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution and the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023.
Falana Seeks Damages and Removal of Video
The legal documents assert that the video, published on Facebook under the name “AfriCare Health Centre,” is false, misleading, and damaging to Falana’s reputation.
He is seeking a court declaration that the publication constitutes a breach of privacy, an order compelling Meta to remove the video, and $5 million in damages.
Meta Accused of Recklessness
Falana, known for his fearless advocacy in human rights and constitutional law, insists he has never had prostatitis and has no dealings with Meta regarding his health.
He claims Meta acted recklessly, using his image without verification to generate traffic and boost advertising revenue.
The case highlights growing concerns over digital privacy violations and the responsibilities of social media platforms in content moderation.