Amnesty International warns that critics of Nigerian President Bola Tinubu risk facing three-year jail terms as it condemns the All Progressives Congress-led government's renewed push for social media regulation.
The human rights organization states on Twitter that the proposed regulation, if enacted, would lead to vague interpretations and harsh penalties for criticizing authorities. Amnesty International highlights the potential consequences, including arbitrary internet shutdowns, limited social media access, and imprisonment for up to three years for government criticism.
The Peoples Gazette previously reported that APC lawmaker Sada Soli is behind the reintroduction of the law. This development follows Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, a close associate of Tinubu, calling for social media regulation, citing it as a "societal menace." Gbajabiamila's statement faced backlash, with Nigerians urging the government to address pressing issues like insecurity and economic challenges.
The renewed push for social media regulation coincides with heightened criticism of Tinubu's government, particularly concerning economic hardships and rising food prices. Nigerians, historically utilizing social media for national discourse and activism, fear the potential stifling of free speech.
Notably, past attempts to regulate social media under former President Muhammadu Buhari faced public resistance over concerns about suppressing freedom of expression.
