By Deborah Nnamdi
The House of Representatives has mandated the nationwide shutdown of pornographic websites. It instructed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to implement the immediate closure of these sites across the country.
This directive was issued during Tuesday’s plenary session. Lawmakers also recommended that internet service providers enforce the block on access as part of the new measure.
The member representing the Faskari/Kankara/Sabuwa Federal constituency, Dalhatu Tafoki, sponsored the motion, calling it a step to “protect societal values.”
He said, “I would like to move a motion for the need to block internet websites hosting pornographic content and sanction the internet service providers responsible for the posting. The House notes that cyber pornography is fast becoming a global problem, and no concrete steps have been taken to cut its phenomenon in Nigeria.
“Nigeria is a highly religious country, and all the major religions in the country forbid nudity and obscenity in any form. Also note that countries in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East have passed legislation that bans pornography in their domains.
“Renowned psychologists and sociologists around the world have issued stern warnings that there are psychological and sociological consequences for creating pornographic content.
“The immediate effects of doing pornographic content include promotion of adultery, prostitution, and other promiscuous behaviors, leading to addiction, escalation, and desensitization, change of attitude towards oneself and family.”
The House adopted the motion and mandated its Committees on Communications and Legislative Compliance to ensure its implementation and report within four weeks for further legislative action.
The Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abass, also warned that sanctions would be imposed on internet service providers that default while lawmakers put a voice vote in favor of the motion.
