The House of Representatives has directed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to enforce the immediate shutdown of pornographic websites across the country.

During plenary on Tuesday, lawmakers emphasized that internet service providers must block access to such content under the new directive.

The motion was sponsored by Dalhatu Tafoki, representing the Faskari/Kankara/Sabuwa Federal Constituency, who described the move as a step to “protect societal values.” He stated, “I would like to move a motion for the need to block internet websites hosting pornographic content and sanction the internet service providers responsible for the posting. The House notes that cyber pornography is fast becoming a global problem, and no concrete steps have been taken to cut its phenomenon in Nigeria.”

Tafoki further argued that “Nigeria is a highly religious country, and all the major religions in the country forbid nudity and obscenity in any form. Also note that countries in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East have passed legislation that bans pornography in their domains.”

Citing concerns from experts, he added, “Renowned psychologists and sociologists around the world have issued stern warnings that there are psychological and sociological consequences for creating pornographic content. The immediate effects of doing pornographic content include a. promotion of adultery, prostitution, and other promiscuous behaviours, leading to addiction, escalation, and desensitisation, change of attitude towards oneself and family.”

The House adopted the motion and assigned its Committees on Communications and Legislative Compliance to oversee implementation, with a report expected within four weeks.

Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abass, also warned that sanctions would be imposed on defaulting internet service providers. Lawmakers then passed the motion through a voice vote.