A Nigerian foundation has dragged TikTok to court over alleged restrictions on users in parts of Northern Nigeria.
The Foundation for Digital Justice and Sustainable Development filed the suit at the Federal High Court in Abuja. The group accused TikTok of restricting or geoblocking users in Kano, Kaduna, Kebbi and Sokoto states. It filed the case through its lawyer, Festus Ogun, on October 5, 2026.
According to the foundation, TikTok cannot limit access for users in some states while others enjoy full access. It asked the court to declare the alleged restriction “wrongful, unconstitutional and arbitrary.” The group also argued that the action violates freedom of expression and protection against discrimination.
The foundation wants TikTok to remove the alleged restrictions immediately. It also wants the court to stop the platform from imposing similar limits without lawful justification. In addition, the group asked TikTok to publish a public apology in three national newspapers.
The case relies on Sections 39, 42, 45 and 46 of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution. It also cites the Fundamental Rights Enforcement Procedure Rules 2009 and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
The court has ordered TikTok Inc to enter an appearance within five days after receiving the summons. If it fails, the court may issue orders it considers appropriate.
