Many more countries among them the United States, United Kingdom and Canada, have expressed disappointment over the suspension of Twitter’s operations in Nigeria and the distraction this has caused by taking away the focus on the country’s pressing problems.
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Minister of information, Lai Mohammed, announced the indefinite suspension of Twitter in Nigeria on Friday, claiming that activities of the global blogging platform had helped to promote subversion in the country.
The United States government said the government’s suspension of Twitter’s operations “undermines Nigerians’ ability to exercise this fundamental freedom and sends a poor message to its citizens, investors and businesses”.
Following this, a joint statement by several countries including Canada, the Republic of Ireland, Norway, the European Union and the US expressed disappointment over the federal government’s announcement.
The foreign missions in Nigeria said the suspension of Twitter will hinder access to information and hamper businesses.
They also noted that the country will be more secure through information sharing, adding that banning systems of expression is not the way to go.
“The diplomatic missions of Canada, the European Union (Delegation to Nigeria), the Republic of Ireland, Norway, the United Kingdom and the United States of America convey our disappointment over the Government of Nigeria’s announcement suspending #Twitter and proposing registration requirements for other social media,” the statement reads.
“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.”
Respected banker Atedo Peterside has also rebuked the government over the Twitter ban, saying the government appears to be quick to do the wrong things while being slow to do the rights thing capable of taking Nigeria and its people forward.
