TikTok has denied restricting access to its platform in Northern Nigeria amid reports that users in several states have been experiencing difficulties accessing the social media network.
The platform’s Head of Communications for Sub-Saharan Africa, Keagile Makgoba, said the company did not impose the reported restriction, adding that it was engaging relevant stakeholders to address the situation.
“We can confirm that this restriction was not implemented by TikTok,” Makgoba said in a statement on Monday.
She reaffirmed the company’s commitment to ensuring that its communities could access the platform, as concerns mounted over the reported disruption.
The controversy followed complaints by users in Kaduna, Kebbi, Kano and Sokoto states, who reportedly began experiencing difficulties loading videos, viewing content and uploading materials from September 14.
A coalition of civil society organisations has since called for an independent investigation into the disruption, demanding clarification over its cause.
The groups urged relevant authorities and telecommunications operators to establish whether the difficulties resulted from a technical fault, network-related problems or a directive from any government agency.
TikTok’s denial leaves questions over the reported disruption unanswered, with affected users and civil society groups seeking a clear explanation of what may have prevented access to the platform in parts of Northern Nigeria.
