Article by: Dumisane Dube
Nigeria says it is in discussions with Twitter after it suspended the US social media service in the country, stating that its use is “unpatriotic”.
Nigeria suspended Twitter two days after Twitter deleted a comment from President Muhammadu Buhari’s account referring to civil unrest that the firm said violated its rules.
The suspension has caused an outcry from the international community and rights groups who called the suspension a “threat to freedom of expression” in Africa’s most populous country.
Foreign Minister Geoffrey Onyeama, said there are ongoing discussions with Twitter and he further stated that the country wants to use social media for good.
“We will see how that progresses, so I cannot say for now the duration of the suspension,” said Onyeama.
Twitter previously stated that it was concerned by Nigeria’s move and that it would work towards resolving the issue.
The EU, US, Canada and Ireland also issued a joint statement criticizing the country for the ban of Twitter.
US Ambassador to Nigeria Mary Beth Leonard said they recognize that there are issues of responsible use of social media but free access to the ability to express oneself is actually very important.
More than 39 million Nigerians have a Twitter account, according to NOI polls, a public opinion and research organization.
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