The Nigerian House of Representatives has directed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to ensure the blocking of all pornographic websites across the country.
The resolution, passed on the floor of the House, also mandates internet service providers to immediately comply with the directive.
The motion leading to the resolution was sponsored by Dalhatu Tafoki, an All Progressives Congress (APC) lawmaker from Katsina State. Tafoki emphasized that cyber pornography has become a global concern and argued that Nigeria has not taken sufficient measures to tackle the issue.
He highlighted the moral and social implications of such content in a country where both Christianity and Islam strongly condemn nudity and obscenity.
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“Nigeria is a highly religious country where major faiths preach against and prohibit nudity and obscenity. It is imperative for us to take concrete steps to address this growing menace,” Tafoki stated while presenting his motion.
He further pointed out that several nations across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East have enacted laws banning pornographic content, adding that Nigeria should follow suit.
Tafoki referenced warnings from psychologists and sociologists regarding the adverse effects of pornography, which he said could lead to issues such as adultery, prostitution, and addiction.
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“Renowned psychologists and sociologists around the world have issued stern warnings on the psychological, sociological, and mental consequences of viewing pornographic content,” the lawmaker added.
The Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, subjected the motion to a voice vote, and it was overwhelmingly supported by the lawmakers.
Following the resolution, the House directed the NCC to impose penalties on internet service providers that fail to comply with the directive.