The Nigerian House of Representatives has taken a bold step in regulating internet content by ordering the immediate shutdown of all pornographic websites across the country. In a plenary session held on Tuesday, the lawmakers directed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to enforce this ban, with a firm directive that internet service providers must block access to such sites.
The motion, which was introduced by Dalhatu Tafoki, the representative for Faskari/Kankara/Sabuwa Federal Constituency, was passed with overwhelming support. Tafoki emphasized that this move was crucial for protecting the country’s moral and societal values. He argued that cyber pornography had become a growing global issue and that Nigeria had yet to take substantial steps to address it.
In his statement, Tafoki highlighted the importance of aligning the country’s internet regulations with its deeply religious and cultural values. He pointed out that all major religions in Nigeria strictly forbid obscenity and nudity in any form. He further noted that several countries in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East have already implemented similar bans on pornography.
The motion was strongly backed by the House, with lawmakers citing concerns raised by psychologists and sociologists about the negative impact of pornography. These experts have warned of the harmful psychological effects it can have, such as promoting behaviors like adultery and prostitution, fostering addiction, and leading to desensitization. Tafoki also referenced the social consequences, including the potential shift in attitudes towards family and self-image.
The House of Representatives has now mandated its Committees on Communications and Legislative Compliance to oversee the implementation of the directive. These committees will report back to the House within four weeks to update lawmakers on progress and compliance.
In a further warning to internet service providers, Speaker Tajudeen Abass reiterated that those who fail to adhere to the ban will face serious sanctions. The decision is seen as part of broader efforts to regulate internet use in Nigeria, addressing what some lawmakers consider harmful content that threatens the nation’s cultural fabric.
This move to restrict access to adult content, while aligned with similar legislation in other regions, raises questions about the balance between regulating harmful content and protecting access to information. It remains to be seen how the directive will be enforced and how it will affect internet freedoms in Nigeria moving forward.
