Nigerians have taken to social media to react to the recent directive by the House of Representatives ordering the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to shut down all pornographic websites across the nation.
While many have expressed support for the move, citing concerns over societal values and the protection of youth, others have questioned its relevance amid the country’s more pressing issues.
The House gave the directive during plenary on Tuesday.
The lawmakers suggested that the internet providers block access under the new directive.
The motion, which was sponsored by Dalhatu Tafoki, member for Faskari/Kankara/Sabuwa Federal constituency, emphasised the need to protect the moral fabric of Nigerian society from the growing threat of cyber pornography.
Tafoki revealed the psychological and sociological risks of pornography, which he argued leads to negative behaviors such as adultery, prostitution, and promiscuity.
He further noted that other countries in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East had already enacted similar legislation, strengthening the call for Nigeria to follow suit.
According to him, “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. 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.
“Nigeria is a highly religious country, and all the major religions in the country forbid nudity and obscenity in any form. Also note that countries in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East have passed legislation that bans pornography in their domains.
“Renowned psychologists and sociologists around the world have issued stern warnings that there are psychological and sociological consequences for creating pornographic content.
“The immediate effects of doing pornographic content include a. promotion of adultery, prostitution, and other promiscuous behaviours, leading to addiction, escalation, and desensitisation, change of attitude towards oneself and family.”
However, the news has brewed a mixed reaction from the public, particularly on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
Some users applauded the decision, while others criticised it as a distraction from more critical national challenges.
A user, @Tailah voiced a concern that many shared, asking, “What does that need to do with the economy?” noting that the government should focus on more urgent issues such as economic stability.
Bodunde Asafa, another user, expressed relief, writing, “Finally! Why did it take this long? So much damage has been done to our young folks but better late than never. Well done @housengr.”
He further suggested that the next step should involve outlawing the sale and distribution of pornographic content via physical media such as DVDs and CDs, fearing that traders may capitalise on any gaps left by the internet ban.
However, Nnaji offered a nuanced take, stating, “This is a positive step, but they should also address the potential risk of increased sexual violence that could arise from restricting access to pornographic websites. It’s a two-pronged approach.”
Some users, like Last Minute Media, criticised the move as ineffective, saying, “That’s laughable… they’re about to shoot themselves in the foot. Heaven and hell knows that our politicians can’t do without pornography.”
On the other hand, Abu_Noord celebrated the decision, writing, “Haram is always Haram=ØÞ=ØÞ=ØÞ no more Haram in this country. Thank you House of Representatives for this great movee&þe&þ.” This comment reveals the religious undertones of the debate, as many Nigerians believe that pornography goes against the country’s moral and religious values.
Tam Gunuboh’s reaction brought attention to the broader implications of the decision, stating, “There are far pressing issues that need radical attention and reform, but still, it’s a great move as it is likely to promote increased productivity among our young population.
“It could also lead to possibly negative externalities like increasing the risk of sexual assault and molestation or rape, as they seek to gratify their sexual urges through alternative means.”
Meanwhile, Mentus Ugwu, a critic of the House’s move, took a jab at the lawmakers, stating, “House of Reps should direct its members with corruption-related cases to refund or be suspended indefinitely.”
Ogechukwu Chime also questioned the priorities of the government, writing, “Is pornography more important than hunger and insecurity ravaging the country that HoR can’t talk about?” noting the disparity between the government’s legislative actions and the everyday struggles of Nigerians.
