Twitter suspension threat to Nigerians human rights – U.S envoy

The United States Consul General in Nigeria, Claire Pierangelo, has described the Twitter suspension in Nigeria as a threat to the human rights of Nigerians.

The Federal Government had on June 4 suspended Twitter operation in Nigeria, following what it described as the persistent use of the platform for activities capable of undermining the country’s corporate existence.

Speaking at an event tagged, ‘A conversation on press freedom, freedom of expression and civic space in Nigeria’, reported by The Punch, Ms Pierangelo said the suspension was worrisome.

According to her, the directive by the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration to all social media platforms to register in Nigeria is worrisome and calls for great concern.

“Banning or significantly restricting social media, including under threat of prosecution, undermines Nigerians’ human rights and fundamental freedoms,” Ms Pierangelo said.

She added: “Nigerian government’s ongoing suspension of Twitter and stated intent to introduce registration requirements for other social media platforms are deeply worrisome.”

According to her, democracy is categorised by freedom of the press.

Making reference to her country, the Consul General said, “the Biden-Harris administration is committed to putting human rights at the heart of our foreign policy, and that includes press freedom and freedom of expression.”