The House of Representatives has directed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to instruct internet service providers across the country to block all websites hosting obscene and pornographic content with immediate effect.
The resolution was passed on Tuesday following a motion sponsored by Dalhatu Tafoki, a lawmaker from Katsina State representing the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Tafoki argued that cyber pornography had become a global issue and that Nigeria had yet to implement adequate measures to curb its spread. He described Nigeria as a “highly religious country” where major faiths prohibit nudity and obscenity, adding that several nations across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East had enacted laws banning pornography.
He further cited warnings from psychologists and sociologists on the harmful effects of pornography, stating that it could encourage adultery, prostitution, and addiction.
“Renowned psychologists and sociologists around the world have issued stern warnings on the psychological, sociological, and mental consequences of viewing pornographic content,” he said.
Following a voice vote led by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, lawmakers unanimously supported the motion. As a result, the House directed the NCC to enforce the ban and impose penalties on any service providers that fail to comply.
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