The House of Representatives has directed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to order all Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in the country to block access to websites hosting obscene and pornographic content.
The lawmakers also called on the NCC to enforce the Nigerian Communications Act and the National Information Technology Development Act against any ISPs that fail to comply with the directive.
These resolutions were adopted following a motion moved by Rep. Dalhatu Tafoki during Tuesday’s plenary in Abuja, titled “Need to Block Internet Websites Hosting Pornographic Content and Sanction Defaulting Internet Service Providers (ISPs).”
Tafoki raised concerns over the widespread availability of explicit content online, lamenting that no significant measures have been taken to curb its influence in Nigeria.
He emphasized that the country upholds strong religious and moral values, with all major faiths opposing indecent and immoral content.
He also noted that several countries in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East have enacted laws restricting access to such materials, adding that exposure to pornographic content could contribute to marital deception, promote adultery and prostitution, and create unrealistic expectations that lead to risky sexual behavior.
Psychologists and sociologists, Tafoki argued, have warned about the negative mental and social impact of explicit content on individuals and society.
Following the House’s decision, the Committees on Communications and Legislative Compliance were tasked with ensuring implementation and are expected to report back within four weeks for further legislative action.
