The Nigerian federal government’s ban on use of Twitter in the country “undermines fundamental freedoms,” the United State of America Mission in Nigeria said on Saturday.
The U.S. stated that the “path to a more secure Nigeria lies in more, not less communication, alongside concerted efforts toward unity, peace, and prosperity.”
The U.S. Mission also said that it also undermines the standing of Nigeria globally especially among “investors and businesses.”
The full statement reads: “Nigeria’s constitution provides for freedom of expression. The Government’s recent #Twitterban 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.”