By capital Watch Media
The Nigerian House of Representatives has instructed the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, to block access to all pornographic websites in the country.
This directive, issued on Tuesday, aims to enforce stricter content control over internet service providers nationwide.
The motion leading to this decision was sponsored by Dalhatu Tafoki, an All Progressives Congress, APC, lawmaker from Katsina State.
Tafoki expressed concern about the rising consumption of pornographic material and its potential impact on Nigerian society.
“Cyber pornography has become a global issue, and Nigeria has not taken sufficient measures to address it,” Tafoki said while presenting his motion.
He further stressed that Nigeria’s cultural and religious values prohibit nudity and obscenity.
“As a highly religious country, our major faiths preach against immoral content,” he added.
Tafoki cited examples of countries across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East that have passed legislation banning pornography.
According to him, Nigeria should follow suit to preserve its moral standards.
The lawmaker also referred to expert opinions on the psychological and social effects of pornography.
“Renowned psychologists and sociologists around the world have issued stern warnings on the mental and emotional consequences of viewing pornographic content,” he noted.
Highlighting some of the perceived dangers, Tafoki mentioned that pornography could lead to issues such as adultery, prostitution, and addiction.
“We cannot ignore the negative impact this content has on individuals and families,” he stated.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, called for a voice vote on the motion, which was passed with overwhelming support from the lawmakers.
Following the resolution, the House directed the NCC to enforce the immediate blocking of all pornographic websites accessible in Nigeria.
The Commission was also tasked with compelling internet service providers to comply with this directive without delay.
Additionally, the House instructed the NCC to impose penalties on any service provider that fails to adhere to the order. Lawmakers stressed the importance of accountability and strict enforcement measures.
In response to the directive, a spokesperson for the NCC confirmed that the Commission would work swiftly to implement the House’s decision.
“We will engage with all internet service providers to ensure compliance with this directive,” the spokesperson stated.
Some advocacy groups welcomed the move, arguing that it would help curb the spread of inappropriate content and protect vulnerable audiences.“This is a step in the right direction for safeguarding our children and upholding our cultural values,” said Adebayo Oluwaseun, a representative of the Nigerian Parents Association.
However, digital rights activists have raised concerns about potential overreach and censorship.
“While protecting moral standards is important, we must also safeguard freedom of expression and access to information,” noted Gbenga Adebisi, a media rights advocate.
The implementation process and the technical measures required to block access to pornographic websites are expected to involve consultations with telecommunications companies and internet service providers.
As the NCC moves forward with this mandate, it remains to be seen how the policy will impact internet usage and digital freedoms in Nigeria.
The House has urged the Commission to provide regular updates on the progress of the implementation and any challenges encountered.
