NDPC Warns Content Creators Against Filming Without Consent

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission has come out strongly against content creators who film people on the streets without asking for permission first. They say this breaks privacy rules and could lead to big trouble, like going to court.

The warning came after a recent mix-up in Lagos where a video maker got into a fight while recording folks waiting for a bus. The commission wants everyone to know that people’s personal space and info should be respected, no matter what.

In their statement, the commission pointed out that filming strangers without a good reason goes against the country’s laws on privacy. They mentioned the constitution and a new data protection act that protects how personal details, like pictures, are handled. If someone records you without your consent, it messes with your right to decide what happens with your own image. This is especially true for random videos made just for fun or likes on social media.

The head of the commission, along with other officials, said that getting clear yes from the person is a must before sharing their video. There might be some cases where it’s okay without asking, but most street videos don’t fit that. They called out things like surprise shows or pranks on the road as ways that can hurt people’s rights without any real benefit to the public.

Social media sites like TikTok, X, and Meta got a direct message to step up and follow their own rules against bad content. If these platforms ignore complaints about wrong videos, they could face punishments from the commission.

This means checking reports fast and taking down stuff that breaks privacy laws to keep users safe.

Content makers need to be careful because they could face jail time or fines if caught. The commission stressed that each person is responsible for what they post, even if it’s for entertainment. This rule aims to stop misuse of cameras and make sure everyone thinks twice before hitting record on someone else.

This move shows how serious the government is about protecting personal info in a world full of phones and videos. As more people make content online, these warnings could change how videos are made and shared. It might lead to fewer surprises on the street and more respect for privacy all around.