US, UK, EU, Media, others knock FG over Twitter ban

by Editor2
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More reactions yesterday trailed the indefinite suspension of Twitter operations in Nigeria following the deletion of President Muhammadu Buhariโ€™s alleged inciting tweets against insurrectionists in the South East, with the United States, the media and other Nigerians joining to condemn federal governmentโ€™s action.

Nigeriaโ€™s minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, who announced the suspension of Twitter operations on Friday had cited โ€œthe persistent use of the platform for activities that are capable of undermining Nigeriaโ€™s corporate existenceโ€ as reasons for the temporary ban of the social media platform.

He further disclosed that the federal government also directed the National Broadcasting Commission, NBC, โ€œto immediately commence the process of licensing all OTT and social media operations in Nigeriaโ€.

Reacting to the development, the United States government yesterday faulted the ban on the American microblogging social media platform, saying it violates the fundamental right of freedom of expression of Nigerians as provided in the countryโ€™s constitution.

A statement issued yesterday by the Public Affairs division of the United States Embassy in Abuja, the US said the ban on Twitter operations is also a disincentive to investors.

It stated: โ€œNigeriaโ€™s constitution provides for freedom of expression.  The Governmentโ€™s recent #Twitterban undermines Nigeriansโ€™ ability to exercise this fundamental freedom and sends a poor message to its citizens, investors and businesses.

โ€œBanning social media and curbing every citizenโ€™s ability to seek, receive, and impart information undermines fundamental freedoms.  As President Biden has stated, our need for individual expression, open public conversation, and accountability has never been greater.โ€œThe path to a more secure Nigeria lies in more, not less communication, alongside concerted efforts toward unity, peace, and prosperity. #KeepitOnโ€. (Leadership)

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