The US consulate in Lagos has stated that the suspension of Twitter by the Nigerian government is deeply worrisome.
This remark was made by US consul-general, Claire Pierangelo at a programme titled: Conversation on Press Freedom, Freedom of Expression and Civic Space in Nigeria, which held in Lagos.
According to Pierangelo, the governments intention to introduce registration requirements for social media platforms, banning or restricting social media with threats of prosecution, undermines the human rights and fundamental freedom of Nigerians.
Nigerian governments ongoing suspension of Twitter and stated intent to introduce registration requirements for other social media platforms is deeply worrisome, she said.
Banning or significantly restricting social media, including under threat of prosecution, undermines Nigerians human rights and fundamental freedoms. We are encouraged by the meetings between Twitter and government technical committee last week aimed at resolving the suspension.
“History is full of cautionary tales showing that when governments try to limit citizens right to talk about certain topics, important conversations are pushed into the shadows, allowing individuals to express their opinions no matter how much the government and other citizens may disagree with them. Rigorous debate promotes transparency and social stability, she stated.
