FG summons UK, US envoys over comments on Twitter ban

The Federal Government has summoned the envoys of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada and the European Union in Nigeria over their recent comments condemning the recent ban on Twitter.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama would be meeting the ambassadors today in Abuja.

You would recall that in a joint statement, the envoys had stated that the Federal Government’s ban on Twitter is not the way forward.

The statement read “The diplomatic missions of Canada, the European Union (Delegation to Nigeria), the Republic of Ireland, the United Kingdom and the United States of America convey our disappointment over the Government of Nigeria’s announcement suspending #Twitter and proposing registration requirements for other social media.”

“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 meetings holds today at the Foreign Affairs Minister’s conference room.