US Reacts To FG’s Twitter Ban; Says It Sends A Poor Message To Investors

The US Mission in Nigeria has condemned, in strong terms, the ban placed on Twitter by the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“The FG, in reaction to Twitter’s downing  of a post by President Muhammadu Buhari, banned, indefinitely, the use of Twitter in Nigeria, and has threatened to jail any Nigerian who circumvents the ban and uses Twitter.

In condemning it, however, the US Mission in Nigeria said the ban negates freedom of speech as enshrined in Nigeria’s Constitution, and sends a wrong message to investors, businesses and the citizens.

The statement reads:

“Nigeria’s Constitution provides for freedom of expression.

“The Government’s recent #Twitter ban undermines Nigerians’ ability to exercise this  fundamental  freedom,  and sends a poor message to its citizens, investors and businesses.

“Banning social media and curbing every citizen’s ability to seek, receive, and impart information undermines fundamental freedoms.

“As President Biden has stated, our need for individual expression, open public conversation, and accountability has never been greater.

“The path to a more secure Nigeria lies in more, not less communication, alongside concerted efforts toward unity, peace, and prosperity. #KeepitOn”

Both the British and Swedish Governments, as well as the Amnesty International, and Nigerians high and low,   have also condemned the Federal Government’s action.