TUESDAY March 11, 2025 |TheNewsDESK
The Nigerian House of Representatives has directed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to take immediate action in blocking all pornographic websites in the country. The directive also mandates internet service providers (ISPs) to restrict access to such content or face penalties.
The resolution was passed following a motion sponsored by Dalhatu Tafoki, a lawmaker from Katsina State representing the All Progressives Congress (APC). While presenting the motion, Tafoki raised concerns over the increasing prevalence of cyber pornography, describing it as a global issue that Nigeria has not adequately addressed.
According to him, Nigeria, being a nation deeply rooted in religious and moral values, must take decisive steps to curb access to explicit content. He emphasized that both Islam and Christianity, the dominant religions in the country, strongly prohibit nudity and obscenity.
He further cited instances of countries in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East that have enacted laws banning pornography, arguing that Nigeria should follow suit.
Tafoki also referenced expert opinions from psychologists and sociologists, warning about the detrimental effects of pornography on individuals and society at large. He stated that viewing explicit content could lead to issues such as addiction, moral decline, adultery, and an increase in prostitution.
“Renowned psychologists and sociologists around the world have issued stern warnings on the psychological, sociological, and mental consequences of viewing pornographic content,” Tafoki asserted.
Following deliberations, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, subjected the motion to a voice vote, and the lawmakers unanimously supported it.
The House subsequently directed the NCC to ensure compliance by ISPs across the country, imposing strict penalties on those who fail to implement the directive.
The decision aligns with ongoing efforts by the government to regulate online content and uphold the nation’s cultural and moral standards. It remains to be seen how the NCC and service providers will implement the directive, as stakeholders in the digital and human rights space continue to express concerns over internet regulations.
