Twitter ban will hurt business, US, UK, others tell FG

The United States, Canada, the European Union, the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland have condemned Nigeria’s government for banning Twitter, saying it will hamper access to information and business.

The condemnation came after the country’s government threatened to arrest and prosecute any resident found using the Twitter app.

The government’s action followed the social media firm’s decision to delete a post by President Muhammadu Buhari and temporarily freezing his Twitter account.

A joint statement, the EU, US, UK, Canada and Ireland said banning systems of expression was wrong and not the way forward.

They said the suspension of Twitter would hinder access to information and hamper businesses.

“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 read.

It stated 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.”