WITHDRAW SOCIAL MEDIA BILL OR FACE LAWSUIT, SERAP TELLS NASS

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged the National Assembly to withdraw the proposed Social Media Bill 2026, warning that it will institute legal action if lawmakers proceed with the legislation.
SERAP described the bill as a backdoor attempt to regulate online expression, arguing that it could undermine the constitutional rights of Nigerians to freedom of expression and access to information.
According to the organisation, the proposed legislation contains provisions that may be used to restrict legitimate criticism, public debate, and the free exchange of ideas on digital platforms.
SERAP maintained that any law limiting online speech must comply with the Nigerian Constitution and the country’s international human rights obligations, stressing that broad restrictions on expression are unacceptable.
The rights group called on members of the National Assembly to prioritise laws that strengthen democratic institutions and protect citizens’ rights rather than introducing measures that could limit civic freedoms.
It also warned that if the bill is not withdrawn, it is prepared to challenge its legality in court to safeguard constitutional freedoms and uphold democratic principles.
The proposed bill has continued to generate public debate, with supporters arguing it is necessary to tackle online abuse and misinformation, while critics fear it could be used to suppress free speech.