The Nigerian House of Representatives has ordered a complete shutdown of pornographic websites across the country. The lawmakers have directed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to enforce the ban and ensure that internet service providers block access to such sites.
The decision was made during a plenary session on Tuesday, following a motion sponsored by Dalhatu Tafoki, who represents the Faskari/Kankara/Sabuwa Federal Constituency. Tafoki described the move as necessary to “protect societal values.”
During the session, Tafoki noted, “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.”
He further pointed out that Nigeria is a highly religious country where major faiths prohibit nudity and obscenity. He also noted that several countries in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East have already implemented similar bans.
According to Tafoki, experts in psychology and sociology have warned about the dangers of pornography, stating that it could lead to various negative social effects, including addiction, desensitization, and changes in behavior toward family and society. He also mentioned concerns about pornography promoting adultery, prostitution, and other behaviors that could weaken moral values.
The House of Representatives approved the motion and assigned its Committees on Communications and Legislative Compliance to oversee the implementation. Lawmakers expect a progress report within four weeks.
House Speaker Tajudeen Abass warned that internet service providers failing to comply with the directive would face sanctions. A voice vote was conducted, with the majority of lawmakers supporting the motion.
