The Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a stern warning to content creators across the country against the unauthorized filming of individuals in public places, declaring that offenders risk prosecution under existing laws.
The caution was delivered by the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), which raised concerns over the growing trend of social media skits and online videos involving unsuspecting members of the public who are filmed without their knowledge or consent.
According to the board, such acts may violate citizens’ rights to privacy and dignity, stressing that content creators must obtain proper consent before capturing or publishing images or videos involving individuals.
The Executive Director of the board, Shaibu Husseini, said the government is increasingly worried about prank videos, staged confrontations and other online content that embarrass or exploit unsuspecting members of the public for entertainment and profit.
He warned that while creativity and digital entertainment are encouraged, they must not come at the expense of citizens’ rights or public decency.
“The public space is not a free-for-all arena where people’s images and reactions can be captured and monetised without permission,” he said, adding that content creators must operate within the boundaries of the law.
Husseini stressed that violators could face legal consequences, including prosecution, if found guilty of breaching regulations governing film, video production and public distribution of content.
The warning comes amid the rapid rise of online skit makers and prank creators across Nigeria, many of whom produce viral content for platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and YouTube.
Industry observers say the directive may reshape how digital creators operate, especially those who rely heavily on spontaneous public reactions to produce viral videos.
Authorities say enforcement measures will be stepped up to ensure that creative freedom does not infringe on the privacy, dignity and safety of Nigerians.
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