Renowned human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), has filed a $5 million lawsuit against Meta Platforms Inc., the parent company of Facebook, alleging an invasion of his privacy. The suit was filed at the Lagos State High Court on February 3, 2025.
Falana claims that Meta wrongfully used his name, image, and voice in a false advertisement for a health product on its platform. The advertisement, published under the page “AfriCare Health Centre” on Facebook, falsely portrayed him as suffering from prostatitis for over 16 years, detailing symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and urinary issues. Falana asserts that he has never suffered from this condition.
In his suit, Falana argues that the unauthorized use of his identity violates his fundamental right to privacy as enshrined in Section 37 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and relevant sections of the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023. He is seeking a declaration that Meta’s actions constitute an invasion of his privacy, an order for the immediate removal of the false video, and $5 million in general damages for the distress and reputational harm caused.
Falana contends that Meta’s failure to verify the claims before publishing exposed him to ridicule and emotional distress. He also alleges that the false publicity was driven by Meta’s desire to boost engagement and ad revenue at his expense.
The court has yet to schedule a date for the hearing.
