The House of Representatives has urged the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to immediately order Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in Nigeria to block access to websites hosting obscene and pornographic content. The motion, titled “Need to Block Internet Websites Hosting Pornographic Content and Sanction Defaulting Internet Service Providers,” was adopted following a call for action by Hon. Dalhatu Shehu Tafoki (APC, Kano).
In presenting the motion, Tafoki highlighted the growing global concern over cyber pornography, stressing that Nigeria has yet to take decisive steps to address the rising problem of online pornography. He pointed out that Nigeria, a deeply religious country, has strong cultural and religious values that condemn nudity and obscenity, a stance shared by many countries in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, which have already enacted laws to ban pornography.
Tafoki also referenced the alarming warnings issued by psychologists and sociologists about the damaging psychological, social, and mental effects of consuming pornographic content. These include addiction, desensitization, and a distorted view of relationships and family life.
The lawmaker further expressed concern that viewing pornography has immediate negative consequences such as marital deception, which could ultimately harm family life, as well as contributing to promiscuity, adultery, and the promotion of unrealistic sexual expectations.
The House has called on the NCC to enforce the full provisions of the Nigerian Communications Act and the National Information Technology Development Act against any ISPs found to be in violation of this directive. The resolution is a significant step in addressing the harmful effects of online pornography in Nigeria and protecting the nation’s moral and cultural values.
