The Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) has expressed grave concern over the proliferation of unethical advertisements with unverifiable claims on Meta platforms, specifically Instagram and Facebook. These platforms, owned by Meta Incorporated and represented in Nigeria by Facebook Nigeria Operations Limited, have become hotspots for advertisements promoting dubious health products and services.
In a statement signed by the Director General, Dr. Lekan Fadolapo, ARCON highlighted that these advertisements, which often claim to treat a wide range of ailments, pose serious health risks to Nigerians. The products in question lack clinical or scientific validation, and many are not certified by relevant government agencies. ARCON’s investigations revealed that these unregulated ads exploit the relatively loose vetting processes of online platforms to target unsuspecting consumers.
ARCON cited several advertisements with outrageous and unfounded claims, including products like:
Nancy Secret Kayamata promising to attract wealthy men.
Hookup Kit designed for women seeking financial favors.
Billz Herbal Wellness allegedly curing stubborn infections and enhancing sexual performance.
Rida Fat Burner marketed as a natural solution for weight loss and other health issues.
The listed claims range from unproven infection treatments to anti-aging solutions and purported cures for diabetes, blurred vision, and high blood pressure. Such bold assertions, ARCON noted, have no backing from medical science or regulatory approvals.
ARCON emphasized that these advertisements were not submitted to the Advertising Standards Panel (ASP), the statutory body responsible for vetting and approving all advertisements targeting the Nigerian market. Under the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria Act No. 23 of 2022, all advertisements must conform to ethical standards and comply with Nigerian laws.
“The exposure of these advertisements violates advertising ethics and poses significant risks to public health,” said Dr. Olalekan Fadolapo, Director-General of ARCON. “It is alarming that such claims are being propagated on platforms with such wide reach.”
ARCON vowed to take stringent action against individuals and organizations involved in the unauthorized exposure of these advertisements. Sanctions will be imposed in line with the prevailing laws and the Code of Advertising Practice.
“We will ensure that the culprits are held accountable,” Dr. Fadolapo asserted. “This is not just about protecting the integrity of advertising but also safeguarding the health and well-being of Nigerians.”
ARCON urged Nigerians to exercise caution and avoid products or services advertised with unverifiable claims, particularly on social media platforms. Consumers are encouraged to verify the credibility of such products with relevant authorities before making purchases.
As the regulatory body continues to monitor the advertising landscape, ARCON called on Meta Incorporated and its Nigerian representatives to strengthen their internal controls to prevent the dissemination of misleading advertisements.
