The house of representatives has directed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to direct internet service providers in the country to block all websites hosting obscene and pornographic contents with immediate effect.
The resolution was passed on Tuesday following a motion sponsored by Dalhatu Tafoki, an All Progressives Congress (APC) lawmaker from Katsina state.
Moving the motion, Tafoki argued that cyber pornography was becoming a global problem and that Nigeria had not taken adequate steps to address it.
He described Nigeria as a “highly religious country” where major faiths prohibit nudity and obscenity.
The legislator said several countries across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East had enacted laws banning pornography.
He also cited warnings from psychologists and sociologists about the negative impact of pornography, including its potential to 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.
Lawmakers voted in support of the motion when Tajudeen Abbas, speaker of the house, subjected it to a voice vote.
Consequently, the house asked NCC to impose penalties on service providers that fail to comply with the directive.
