Advertising regulator urges tougher action against fraudulent online adverts

The Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria has called for enhanced surveillance and stricter enforcement of advertising regulations in the digital space, citing growing concerns over unethical practices.

The Director-General of ARCON, Dr Olalekan Fadolapo, made the call on Monday at the All Gaming Stakeholders Conference organised by the National Lottery Regulatory Commission in Lagos.

While acknowledging high compliance in traditional media, he noted that digital platforms remain largely unregulated, allowing advertisers to operate with minimal oversight.

“In traditional media, the level of compliance is very high. However, in the digital space, everyone does whatever they like,” Fadolapo stated.

He also pointed to a recent resolution by the National Assembly urging ARCON to increase its oversight of digital advertising.

Fadolapo emphasised the negative impact of unethical advertising, particularly in promoting fraudulent schemes.

“One of the reasons we take issues to the Advertising Offences Tribunal is to address such matters. Advertising cannot operate on ‘autopilot.’ Nowhere in the world are advertising practices left unchecked,” he said.

Fadolapo cited examples such as reality TV star Kim Kardashian’s promotion of a cryptocurrency scheme in the U.S., which led to financial losses for investors. “For instance, in the U.S., Kardashian promoted cryptocurrency.

People invested, lost their money, and she was fined $2 million. She was also banned from promoting any products on Instagram for three years,” he said.

The ARCON chief stressed that such practices cannot continue, as they undermine the economy and harm citizens. “As gatekeepers of advertising, we will not allow these unethical practices to go unchecked,” he asserted.

Fadolapo also revealed that ARCON had already taken action, with several organisations facing charges and fines for violations of advertising standards.

His comments come as part of ongoing efforts to reform the digital advertising landscape in Nigeria, ensuring that online advertising remains ethical, transparent, and safe for consumers.

As the industry continues to grow, he stressed that stronger regulations will be necessary to maintain public trust and protect citizens from fraudulent activities.