The Nigerian House of Representatives has directed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to block all pornographic websites across the country. The lawmakers made this decision during their plenary session on Tuesday, emphasizing the need to protect societal values and regulate online content.
The motion was sponsored by Hon. Dalhatu Tafoki, who represents the Faskari/Kankara/Sabuwa Federal Constituency. He argued that cyber pornography has become a serious problem worldwide, and Nigeria must take action to control its spread.
Tafoki pointed out that Nigeria is a highly religious country, and both Christianity and Islam strongly discourage nudity and immoral content. He also noted that many countries, especially in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, have already implemented laws banning pornography to protect their societies.
The lawmaker warned that exposure to pornographic content has negative psychological and social consequences. He explained that watching such content can lead to addiction, change people’s attitudes toward relationships and family, and promote behaviours like prostitution and adultery
After discussing the motion, the House of Representatives adopted it and directed the NCC to enforce the shutdown of all pornographic websites in Nigeria.
The lawmakers also ordered internet service providers (ISPs) to block access to such sites and warned that companies that fail to comply will face penalties. The House further mandated its Committees on Communications and Legislative Compliance to monitor the implementation of this directive and report back within four weeks.
Speaker’s Warning to Internet Providers
The Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abass, emphasized that sanctions will be imposed on any ISP that does not follow the order. He assured that the House will ensure strict enforcement of the directive to prevent Nigerian internet users from accessing pornographic content.
This move marks a major step in Nigeria’s effort to regulate digital content and maintain moral standards in society. The decision has sparked discussions among citizens, with some supporting it as a necessary step to protect values, while others argue that internet censorship should be handled with caution.
