The United States says social media restrictions in Nigeria
and the threat to prosecute users weakens the rights of the people.
The U.S. Consulate hosted “Conversation on Press Freedom,
Freedom of Expression and Civic Space in Nigeria” on Wednesday in Lagos.
Consul General Claire Pierangelo, in her remarks, said the
event was organized because the U.S. believes that media freedom and freedom of
expression are vital to a thriving democratic system.
The Biden-Harris administration is committed to putting
human rights at the heart of America’s foreign policy, Pierangelo stressed.
Noting that a free press is a core pillar to a democracy,
the diplomat said the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees free
expression and prohibits congress from restricting the press or the rights of
individuals to speak at will.
Pierangelo said since 2019, she had spoken with thousands of
Nigerians about democracy, elections, and the country’s history.
The CG expressed concern about the seeming muzzling of
journalists as well as the proposed legislation which could have significant
consequences for free press.
“Nigerian government’s ongoing suspension of Twitter and
stated intent to introduce registration requirements for other social media
platforms is deeply worrisome.
“Banning or significantly restricting social media, including
under threat of prosecution, undermines Nigerians’ human rights and fundamental
freedoms”, she declared.
America is encouraged by the meetings between Twitter and
government technical committee aimed at resolving the suspension, the Consul
General added.
Pierangelo charged reporters, editors, media executives, and
the civil society to remain vigilant to protect the right to freedom of
expression and press freedom.
On June 4, the Nigerian government ordered internet service
providers to suspend access to Twitter.
The directive followed the deletion of President Muhammadu
Buhari’s tweet for violation of rules.
The federal government vowed to prosecute citizens and
broadcast stations who continue to tweet. The threat was later withdrawn due to
outrage.
On June 22, the Buhari administration mentioned End SARS as
one of the reasons for Twitter ban.
The government accused the social media platform of funding
an uprising against the state.
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