TikTok Temporarily Blocks Nighttime LIVE Access for Nigerian Users
Creators lost night-time broadcasts and viewing during a safety review, and access returned by Monday morning amid questions over further controls.
TikTok users in Nigeria were taken by surprise on Sunday night when the platform abruptly restricted access to its LIVE feature between 11pm and 5am. Only creators eligible to host LIVE sessions received an in-app notice stating that the limitation was part of an ongoing safety review.
Creators reported being unable to start or view LIVE broadcasts during the blackout period, even from accounts in other countries, though their balances and previous earnings remained untouched. The restriction prompted widespread debate online, especially among streamers who rely heavily on night-time traffic for virtual gifts and income.
By Monday morning, the LIVE function had been fully restored, but the brief suspension has raised questions about whether further controls may follow. The timing is notable, as the company recently published regional safety data showing strict enforcement across West Africa.
According to the latest figures, more than 49,000 Nigerian LIVE sessions were removed in the second quarter of 2025, alongside millions of videos taken down for guideline violations. The temporary night-time lockout has now intensified scrutiny of the platform’s moderation practices in Nigeria.
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