The House of Representatives has directed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to shut down all pornographic websites in Nigeria. This resolution was passed on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, following a motion sponsored by Dalhatu Tafoki, an All Progressives Congress (APC) lawmaker from Katsina State.
Tafoki argued that cyber pornography is a global problem that Nigeria has not adequately addressed. He emphasized that Nigeria is a highly religious country where major faiths prohibit nudity and obscenity. The lawmaker also cited examples of countries across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East that have enacted laws banning pornography.
The motion was supported by the lawmakers, who voted in favor of it when subjected to a voice vote by the Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas. Consequently, the House directed the NCC to instruct internet service providers to block access to pornographic websites with immediate effect. The NCC was also mandated to impose penalties on service providers that fail to comply with the directive.
This development has sparked concerns about internet censorship and freedom of expression in Nigeria. However, proponents of the ban argue that it is necessary to protect the moral fabric of the society and prevent the negative consequences of pornography, including addiction, adultery, and prostitution.
