Some diplomatic missions in the country have condemned the Nigerian government’s ban of twitter, as well as the proposed registration requirements for other social media.
The missions are Canada, The European Union Delegation to Nigeria), the Republic of Ireland, the United Kingdom and the United States of America.
They declared that free expression and access to information were the pillars of democracy.
Their positions were contained in a statement they jointly released to the press and the general public on Saturday.
They said they had conveyed their disappointment over Nigeria’s government announcement suspending #Twitter and proposing registration requirements for other social media.
Read the statement further: “We strongly support the fundamental human right of free expression and access to information as a pillar of democracy in Nigeria as around the world and these rights apply online as well as offline.
“Banning systems of expression is not the answer. These measures inhibit access to information and commerce at precisely the moment when Nigeria needs to foster inclusive dialogue and expression of opinions, as well as share vital information in this time of the COVID-19 pandemic.”
“The path to a more secure Nigeria lies in more, not less, communication to accompany the concerted efforts of Nigeria’s citizens in fulsome dialogue toward unity, peace and prosperity. As Nigeria’s partners, we stand ready to assist in achieving these goals.”
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