The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has issued a stern warning to content creators regarding the unauthorized filming of citizens. In a recent statement, the NDPC highlighted the rise of individuals recording unsuspecting members of the public and sharing the footage on social media, labeling these actions as violations of privacy rights. The Commission emphasized that such practices do not align with public or legitimate interest, further aggravating the concerns surrounding personal privacy in digital content creation.

The NDPC pointed out a particular case of a content creator in Lagos State who conducts what she deems a ‘reality show’ by filming unsuspecting passers-by. The preliminary investigation indicated that the creator's approach did not serve any public or legitimate purpose, reinforcing the Commission's stance on the necessity for consent when capturing individuals' images or likenesses. This incident underscores a growing concern regarding the balance between content creation and the right to personal privacy in Nigeria.

In addition to warnings, the NDPC has threatened to pursue criminal prosecution and impose sanctions on social media platforms that neglect their responsibility to control such unauthorized practices. By taking a firm stance against these violations, the NDPC aims to safeguard citizens’ privacy rights as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution, specifically S.37 of the 1999 Constitution. This move reflects a broader trend of regulatory bodies worldwide tightening measures to protect personal data and privacy in an increasingly digital landscape.