The House of Representatives has passed a resolution mandating the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to block access to pornographic websites nationwide with immediate effect.
The resolution was adopted following a motion raised by Dalhatu Tafoki, the lawmaker representing Faskari/Kankara/Sabuwa Federal Constituency, Katsina State, during plenary on Tuesday.
Tafoki expressed deep concern over unrestricted access to pornographic content, warning that it contributes to moral decline and negative psychological effects, especially among young Nigerians. Citing psychological studies and international precedents, he highlighted that several countries have already banned pornography to safeguard public morality and values.
With this directive, the NCC is expected to take immediate steps to restrict access to adult content, sparking discussions about internet censorship, digital rights, and the balance between regulation and individual freedoms.
Mr Tafoki stated, “Renowned psychologists and sociologists worldwide have issued strong warnings about the psychological, sociological, and mental consequences of consuming pornographic content.’’
The motion was subsequently supported by other lawmakers who stressed the urgent need to safeguard the country’s rich social and moral values.
The directive, if eventually implemented, would greatly affect swathes of young Nigerians who take solace in several pornographic platforms, some of which are OnlyFans, Pornhub, XVideos and Allaccess, to make ends meet.
The development also indicates that accounts by Nigerians relying on heavy followership on several pornographic platforms and monthly subscription renewals to laugh all the way to the bank would be affected.