The U.S. government has formally reacted to Nigeria’s ban on operations of Twitter, demanding the immediate reversal.
The U.S. government, in a statement titled ‘Nigeria’s Twitter Suspension‘ and signed by State Department Spokesperson, Ned Price, condemns the threat by the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Abubakar Malami, to arrest and prosecute all users of the microblogging platform in Nigeria.
According to the full statement: “The United States condemns the ongoing suspension of Twitter by the Nigerian government and subsequent threats to arrest and prosecute Nigerians who use Twitter.
“The United States is likewise concerned that the Nigerian National Broadcasting Commission ordered all television and radio broadcasters to cease using Twitter.
“Unduly restricting the ability of Nigerians to report, gather, and disseminate opinions and information has no place in a democracy.
“Freedom of expression and access to information both online and offline are foundational to prosperous and secure democratic societies.
“We support Nigeria as it works towards unity, peace, and prosperity.
“As its partner, we call on the government to respect its citizens’ right to freedom of expression by reversing this suspension.”
