Nigerian Lawmakers Call for a National Ban on Online Pornography

ABUJA, Nigeria—Lawmakers in the Nigerian House of Representatives have ordered a national ban on accessing adult entertainment platforms in the country's digital space. According to local news reports, the House voted overwhelmingly in support of the motion directing the Nigerian Communications Commission to enforce the total ban. The measure was adopted during a Tuesday plenary. Rep. Dalhatu Tafoki sponsored the motion calling for a means to protect Nigeria's "societal values." “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 said. "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 justified the measure by referring to the country's religious history. He added that "all major religions in the country forbid nudity and obscenity in any form." He also referred to how several countries throughout Asia, Africa and the Middle East have recently adopted laws banning pornography. Following its passage, House Speaker Tajudeen Abass referred the motion to the Committees on Communications and Legislative Compliance to ensure the Nigerian Communications Commission and internet service providers implement the ban and report four weeks later for further action.