The Nigerian House of Representatives has taken decisive action to ban pornographic websites, directing the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to mandate all internet service providers (ISPs) to immediately block access to such content.
The resolution passed during Tuesday’s plenary session, follows a motion sponsored by Hon. Dalhatu Tafoki, a lawmaker representing Katsina State. The motion resonated strongly with lawmakers, who voted overwhelmingly in favor during a voice vote presided over by Speaker of the House, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas.
Following the vote, the House formally resolved to direct the NCC to enforce the ban and ensure compliance among telecommunication providers. The resolution also empowers the NCC to apply penalties under the Nigerian Communications Act and the National Information Technology Development Act against any ISPs that fail to restrict access to pornographic websites. This move signals a strong intent to regulate digital content in line with Nigeria’s moral and cultural framework.
The decision aligns with broader concerns about the impact of unregulated online content on Nigerian youth. Tafoki emphasized that young Nigerians have increasingly become addicted to explicit material, which he argued could hinder their psychological and social development.
“Unrestricted access to such content is eroding the societal and moral values of our citizens,” he stated, echoing sentiments shared by many lawmakers who supported the motion.
The House’s action reflects a growing push by Nigerian authorities to address what they perceive as harmful digital influences, particularly in a country where internet penetration continues to rise.