The media regulator in Gabon has ordered a nationwide suspension of social media platforms, including Facebook and TikTok.
The High Authority for Communication announced the move on Tuesday, saying the suspension would remain “until further notice.”
Authorities said online content, including false information and defamatory posts, had fuelled tensions and threatened social cohesion and national security.
The regulator cited cyberbullying, unauthorised sharing of personal data, and hateful material as reasons for the decision.
Officials said the measure was necessary to protect public order amid rising social tensions.
Facebook and TikTok, widely used by millions of Gabonese for communication, business and entertainment, became inaccessible on Wednesday.
The regulator’s spokesman read the suspension order on national television, noting that social media use had increased sharply in the country.
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Gabonese users reported that access to the platforms was blocked hours after the announcement.
The move comes amid ongoing labour protests and civil unrest, with striking teachers and other workers demanding better conditions.
Critics say the suspension may affect commerce, information flow and freedom of expression in the country.
Officials have not specified when access to Facebook, TikTok and other platforms will be restored.
