Falana Sues Mark Zuckerberg’s Meta for $5M Over Alleged Privacy Violation
By Faisal A Harande
Renowned Human Rights Lawyer Fights Back Against False Health Claims on FacebookLagos, Nigeria.Senior Advocate of Nigeria and human rights lawyer, emi Falana, has filed a $5 million lawsuit against Meta Platforms Inc., the parent company of Facebook, over an alleged invasion of his privacy.
Falana, in the suit filed before a Lagos High Court, accused Meta of publishing a misleading video on Facebook, falsely claiming he had been suffering from prostatitis for 16 years. The video, which appeared on a page named“AfriCare Health Centre,” allegedly used his name, image, and a fabricated voiceover, suggesting that he had battled the disease and struggled to find a cure.
Legal Grounds for the Suit: Falana’s lawsuit, filed through his attorney Olumide Babalola, is anchored on:
Section 37 of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution (as amended), which guarantees the right to privacy.
Sections 24(1)(A) and (E) & Section 34(1)(D) of the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023, which protect individuals from unauthorized use of their personal data.
The Fundamental Rights Enforcement Procedure Rules (2009), which allow citizens to seek redress for fundamental rights violations.
“False, Misleading, and Invasive” Falana Speaks OutFalana firmly denies ever having prostatitis, stating:
“The publication is false, misleading, and highly invasive. My health status is a private matter, and I have never had any dealings with Meta or its affiliates regarding my personal life.”
He contends that the unverified video, which was widely viewed across Meta’s global platforms, has caused him emotional distress, mental anguish, and reputational damage.
Falana’s Demands from the Court-The legal icon is seeking: 1. An immediate order for Meta to remove the false video from Facebook and all its platforms. 2. A public apology and acknowledgment of the misleading publication. 3. $5 million in general damages for emotional and psychological distress.
“A Reckless Violation of Privacy” Falana argues that the video was published recklessly without verification, primarily to drive traffic and boost Facebook’s advertising revenue. He insists that the false claims have subjected him to ridicule and embarrassment, particularly given his status as a well-known advocate for justice.
“This video falsely portrays me in a negative light, violating my right to privacy and causing me unnecessary distress,” he added.
Meta Yet to Respond: As of now, Meta has not issued an official response to the lawsuit. However, the case is expected to set a major legal precedent in Nigeria regarding privacy rights, data protection, and accountability of global tech giants.
With this lawsuit, Falana joins a growing list of global figures challenging social media misinformation and unauthorized use of personal data.
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