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Twitter ban undermines Nigerians’ right to freedom of expression – US

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The United States said on Saturday the Nigerian government’s suspension of Twitter’s operations in the country was an infringement on the rights of Nigerians to freedom of expression.

In a statement issued by the US Mission in Nigeria, Washington noted that ban also sends a wrong signal to the citizens, investors, and businesses.

The Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, had on Friday announced the indefinite suspension of Twitter in Nigeria.

He said in a statement that the platform was being used to undermine Nigeria’s corporate existence.

The US statement read: “Nigeria’s constitution provides for freedom of expression.

READ ALSO: Buhari’s civil war tweet a statement of fact. Its removal by Twitter disappointing – Presidency

“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.”

“President Biden has stated that 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.”

By John Chukwu

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