The recent attempt by the Federal Government to regulate social media has ignited a heated debate, with many internet users vowing to resist any measure that curtails freedom of speech.
The principles of democracy uphold freedom of expression and empower the media to serve as a critical platform for public debate, scrutiny, and reflection. Independent media and quality journalism are the pillars of a democratic society, and social media plays a prominent role in this landscape.
On October 3, the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) sent a bill to the National Assembly seeking to repeal and reenact the NBC act, CAP L11 laws of the federation of Nigeria, 2004. If passed into law, this bill would grant the NBC the authority to regulate social media.
Balarabe Ilelah, Director-General of NBC, described the challenges posed by social media as a “monster” during a meeting with Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation.
Subsequently, the NBC initiated discussions with major social media platforms to address the excesses of their users.
However, this move has generated widespread controversy among Nigerians. Many believe that the government is attempting to pressure social media companies into unduly restricting the fundamental human rights of citizens, citing threats to “National Security.”
Critics argue that the bill is a ploy by the government to limit the right to freedom of expression and individual privacy.
In response to the NBC’s efforts, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) called on the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, to reject the bill outright.
SERAP asserted that if the bill becomes law, it would criminalize the legitimate and lawful exercise of the human rights of Nigerians. They argue that the move to regulate social media is inconsistent with the Nigerian Constitution of 1999 and the country’s international human rights obligations.
The Nigerian government has previously attempted to regulate social media, with the suspension of Twitter on June 4, 2021. The suspension was lifted on January 12, 2022, following public resistance.
Public opinion on the matter remains divided. Some citizens believe that the government’s intention is to stifle criticism and opposition, while others are concerned about the impact of social media on moral values. An Abuja-based public policy analyst with the African Center for Democratic Research, Biodun Afuwape told Abuja City Journal that the fresh attempt by the Federal Government to regulate social media shows “the insensitivity of the [President Bola] Tinubu’s administration to the yearning of Nigerians. Recall that during the campaigns, he said he felt embarrassed by the comments on social media against him especially those about his certificate and alleged involvement in narcotic trade.”
The Abuja City Journal reached out to Dada Olusegun, the Special Assistant to the President on Social Media, for comment. He had not returned our calls or reacted to our text messages as of the time we filed the report.
