The House of Representatives has instructed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to ensure that all internet service providers in the country block access to websites that feature obscene and pornographic content immediately.
This decision was made on Tuesday following a motion introduced by Dalhatu Tafoki, an All Progressives Congress (APC) representative from Katsina State. Tafoki argued that cyber pornography is becoming a serious global issue, and he believes Nigeria has not done enough to address it.
Read Also: ECOWAS Launches Standby Force to Tackle Insurgency Threats
He pointed out that Nigeria is a “highly religious country” where major faiths discourage nudity and obscenity. Tafoki also mentioned that many countries in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East have already implemented laws to ban pornography.
The lawmaker highlighted concerns from psychologists and sociologists about the harmful effects of pornography, including its potential to promote adultery, prostitution, and addiction. He stated, “Renowned psychologists and sociologists around the world have issued stern warnings on the psychological, sociological, and mental consequences of viewing pornographic content.”
After discussing the motion, lawmakers voted in favor of it during a voice vote led by House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas. Following this decision, the House has directed the NCC to impose penalties on any service providers that do not comply with the new directive.
