The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has ordered an immediate inquiry into the data processing operations of Temu, a Chinese-owned e-commerce platform.
Temu is being accused of violating data of an estimated 12.7 million Nigerians and is now users under regulatory scrutiny.
The commission announced the probe this week, with its CEO, Vincent Olatunji, ordering an immediate review of Temu’s data processing operations.
The case comes amid rising global scrutiny of foreign digital platforms and reflects Nigeria’s determination to tighten oversight of how multinational tech firms manage citizens’ data.
Regulators say they are assessing whether the fast-growing online marketplace complies with national standards on transparency, lawful data collection, surveillance practices, and the transfer of personal information across borders.
Temu, known for offering heavily discounted consumer goods ranging from electronics to clothing, has expanded quickly in Nigeria, riding the country’s booming e-commerce adoption.
However, authorities now question whether that rapid growth may have come at the expense of user privacy and responsible data handling.
At the centre of the investigation are concerns that the platform may be collecting more information than necessary to operate a potential breach of the data minimisation principle enshrined in Nigeria’s data protection framework.
The NDPC is also examining whether Nigerian users’ data is being moved to foreign servers without adequate legal safeguards or consent.
Beyond Temu itself, the regulator warned that local data processors, including logistics, payment, and technology partners, could also face liability if they enable non-compliant practices.
The message signals a broader enforcement push that places responsibility on every company involved in handling Nigerians’ personal information.
Temu has yet to publicly respond to the allegations, and the commission has not disclosed how long the investigation will last or what penalties may follow.
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