…Lawmakers push for stronger enforcement of pornography ban in Nigeria
The Nigerian House of Representatives has taken decisive action against online pornography, directing the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to block access to all pornographic websites across the country.
The resolution came during Tuesday’s plenary session following a motion presented by Dalhatu Tafoki, representing the Faskari/Kankara/Sabuwa Federal Constituency. Tafoki cited the negative impact of pornography on societal values and individual psychology, emphasizing the urgent need for action.
Call for Internet Restrictions
In his motion, Tafoki stressed that Nigeria, as a religious and conservative society, should not allow unrestricted access to explicit content. He pointed out that several countries in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East have already enacted similar bans.
“I rise to move a motion for the need to block internet websites hosting pornographic content and sanction defaulting internet service providers,” Tafoki stated. “Cyber pornography is fast becoming a global problem, yet no concrete steps have been taken to curb its spread in Nigeria.”
The House subsequently urged the NCC to ensure compliance by ordering internet service providers (ISPs) to immediately restrict access to pornographic websites. Lawmakers also called for strict enforcement of the Nigerian Communications Act and the National Information Technology Development Act against non-compliant ISPs.
Psychological and Social Concerns
Tafoki further highlighted expert concerns over pornography’s psychological and societal effects, warning that it could lead to addiction, promiscuity, and family instability.
“Psychologists and sociologists worldwide have issued stern warnings about the consequences of consuming pornographic content,” he said. “It promotes deception in marriage, encourages adultery and prostitution, and leads to desensitization and altered family dynamics.”
Enforcement and Compliance Monitoring
The House assigned its Committees on Communications and Legislative Compliance to oversee the implementation of the directive, with a report expected within four weeks.
Speaker Tajudeen Abbas reinforced the lawmakers’ commitment to tackling the issue, warning that ISPs failing to comply would face legal sanctions.
With this latest move, Nigeria joins a growing list of nations seeking to regulate internet content in an effort to uphold moral and societal values.
