OPPO Kenya has taken legal action against influencer marketing agency AIfluence, accusing the platform of defamation and brand damage following its failure to pay influencers engaged in the OPPO Reno12 series campaign.
In a statement released on Monday, OPPO Kenya acknowledged concerns raised by influencers over non-payment for their participation in the campaign. The smartphone manufacturer clarified that it had fully met its financial obligations to AIfluence, which was contracted to handle influencer management, including contracts, deliverables, and payments.
According to OPPO, it paid AIfluence in two installments—an initial 50% down payment and the final 50% upon completion of work on October 25, 2024. The company emphasized that all influencers had signed contracts directly with AIfluence, not OPPO Kenya. Despite this, OPPO expressed sympathy for the affected influencers and reiterated that it had communicated its full payment status to them through direct channels or their managers.
However, OPPO Kenya noted that under Kenyan law, it has no legal grounds to take direct action against AIfluence on behalf of the influencers. Instead, the company has offered legal assistance, including covering legal costs, to those seeking compensation. Despite this offer, none of the influencers have pursued legal action against AIfluence.
OPPO Kenya reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the influencers affected by the situation and ensuring their rights are protected. The company underscored its dedication to fair compensation and fostering positive relationships with influencers in the Kenyan market.
AIfluence, the accused agency, is a technology-driven advertising platform that leverages artificial intelligence to match influencers with brands. The company claims to manage end-to-end influencer marketing campaigns while ensuring transparency in measuring return on investment (ROI).
