In a significant action to control online content, the House of Representatives has instructed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to require internet service providers to restrict access to all pornographic websites in the country.
The resolution, passed on Tuesday, was prompted by a motion from Dalhatu Tafoki, a lawmaker from Katsina State, who contended that unrestricted access to pornographic content harms societal values, particularly among young Nigerians.
Tafoki noted during the presentation of the motion that prominent psychologists and sociologists globally have raised serious concerns regarding the psychological, sociological, and mental effects of pornographic material. He also mentioned that numerous countries in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East have implemented laws to limit or completely prohibit pornography.
The proposal garnered substantial support in the House, with lawmakers underscoring the significance of preserving Nigerian cultural and moral values. The resolution was approved during a voice vote conducted by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, reflecting the House’s commitment to monitoring explicit content.
In response to the directive, the NCC is anticipated to promptly implement measures to ensure that internet service providers comply. Legislators have also requested that penalties be imposed on providers who do not adhere to the ban.
