The House of Representatives has called on the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to direct Internet Service Providers (ISPs) operating in Nigeria to take immediate steps to block all websites that host obscene and pornographic content.
They also urged the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to apply the full rigours of the Nigerian Communications Act and the National Information Technology Development Act against defaulting Internet Service Providers (ISPs).
These resolutions followed the adoption of a motion titled “Need to Block Internet Websites Hosting Pornographic Content and Sanction Defaulting Internet Service Providers (ISPs),” moved by Mr Dalhatu Shehu Tafoki.
Leading the debate on the motion, Mr Tafoki stated that the House “Notes that cyber pornography is fast becoming a global problem and no concrete steps have been taken to curb the phenomenon of cyber pornography in Nigeria.”
Also Read: Telecommunication: Reps probe NCC over service coverage fund
He further noted that Nigeria is a highly religious country, and “All the major religions in the country have forbidden nudity and obscenity in any form.”
“Also notes that countries across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East have enacted legislations that ban pornography in their domains. Also, aware that renowned psychologists and sociologists around the world have issued stern warnings on the psychological, sociological, and mental consequences of viewing pornographic content.”
Expressing concern, the motion stated: “Concerned deeply that some of the immediate effects of viewing pornographic content include:
(a) causing deception in marriage, which may later affect family life;
(b) promoting adultery, prostitution, and many unrealistic expectations that can result in dangerous promiscuous behaviour;
(c) leading to addiction, escalation, desensitisation, and acting out sexually by one person; change of attitude towards oneself and one’s family.”
In passing the motion, the House mandated the Committees on Communications and Legislative Compliance to ensure implementation and report within four (4) weeks for further legislative action.
Comments are closed.