The House of Representatives has ordered the immediate shutdown of pornographic websites across Nigeria, directing the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to enforce the ban.
The decision was made during plenary on Tuesday following a motion sponsored by Dalhatu Tafoki, who represents the Faskari/Kankara/Sabuwa Federal Constituency. Tafoki emphasized the need to “protect societal values” and curb the negative impact of cyber pornography in the country.
“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,” Tafoki stated.
“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 highlighted that Nigeria, being a religious country, should not condone nudity and obscenity, citing that several nations in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East have already implemented similar bans.
“Renowned psychologists and sociologists around the world have issued stern warnings about the psychological and sociological consequences of pornography,” Tafoki added. “Its effects include the promotion of adultery, prostitution, and other promiscuous behaviours, leading to addiction, escalation, and desensitisation.”
Following a voice vote in favour of the motion, the House directed its Committees on Communications and Legislative Compliance to oversee the enforcement and report back within four weeks for further legislative action.
Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abass, also warned that internet service providers who fail to comply with the directive would face sanctions.