Twitter Ban: “We Are Disappointed”– Canada, Ireland, EU, UK, US Release Joint Statement.

The diplomatic missions of Canada, the European Union
(Delegation to Nigeria), the Republic of Ireland, the United
Kingdom and the United States of America have conveyed their
disappointment over Nigeria’s announcement suspending #Twitter and
proposing registration requirements for other social media.

The countries, in a joint statement, said they are in support of
fundamental rights and access to information as pillar of
Democracy. According to them, banning them is not a solution

“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.”

The diplomatic missions of Canada, the European Union
(Delegation to Nigeria), the Republic of Ireland, the United
Kingdom and the United States of America have conveyed their
disappointment over Nigeria’s announcement suspending #Twitter and
proposing registration requirements for other social media.

The countries, in a joint statement, said they are in support of
fundamental rights and access to information as pillar of
Democracy. According to them, banning them is not a solution

“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.”