The Nigerian Senate is currently considering two harsh bills relating to freedom of expression online, including one which proposes the death penalty for ‘hate speech.’ These bills, supported by the Nigerian government, represent an alarming escalation in the authorities’ attempts to censor and punish social media users for freely expressing their opinions.
The proposed National Commission for the Prohibition of Hate Speech bill, and the Protection from Internet Falsehood and Manipulation and other Related Offences bill, give authorities arbitrary powers to shut down the internet and limit access to social media and make criticizing the government punishable with penalties of up to three years in prison.
This is a complete violation of our human rights. We all should stand against the passage of this bill. #SayNotoSocialMediaBill
This is absurd and senseless. As for me. This is a misplaced priority.
The Federal Government and all other key state actors like the northern governors and members of the Nigerian Senate are so afraid, and they are aware of how powerful public opinion is, hence this social media bill and hate speech balderdash. Social media is the only weapon Nigerians has to hold government accountable of their actions. These bills should never see the light of day. Amen. #SayNotoSocialMediaBill
If you are a Nigerian youth, then get ready for the greatest showdown with FG. This govt has taken away everything from us with little or no resistance. Now they want to take away our voices, with the Social Media bill. We will occupy Nigeria.
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