Coalition Urges Nigeria's NASS to Withdraw Repressive Bills

A coalition of civil society organizations has called on the National Assembly of Nigeria to withdraw several controversial bills that threaten civic freedoms, democratic participation, and constitutional rights. During a press conference on Monday in Abuja, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), criticized the Foreign Aids (Regulation, Transparency and Disclosure) Bill, 2026 (SB.1034), which mandates social media platforms to establish physical offices in Nigeria.

Rafsanjani stated that such legislation jeopardizes fundamental rights, including freedom of expression and media freedom. Olubunmi Aweda, Country Manager and Director of Global Rights Nigeria, urged the National Assembly to engage in meaningful consultations with stakeholders before passing reforms affecting civic freedoms.

Isa Sanusi, Country Director of Amnesty International, called for the rejection of the bills, advocating for legislation that protects civic space. Abayomi Sarumi from CAPPA expressed concerns about proposals that would increase government control over digital platforms, which are crucial for public debate and civic participation.