The Senate on Tuesday
deleted section 13 (3) of a proposed bill which stipulates a punishment
of seven years in prison for those who publish slanderous messages
about the government online.
Senator Gbenga Kaka (APC-Ogun) announced the decision after consulting with stakeholders, citing the uproar on social media and possible abuse and misinterpretation as reasons for deleting the bill.
The bill had stated that: “Anyone who intentionally propagates false information that could threaten the security of the country or capable of inciting the general public against the government through electronic messages shall be guilty of an offence. And upon conviction shall be sentenced to seven years imprisonment or N5 million fine.”
Senator Kaka, speaking at the press conference, said the reaction to the bill by those on social media led to its removal.
"Following the public hearing which was held after the second reading, the section 13 (3) of the provision was taken exception to by the social media. After consultations, we resolved that section 13 (3) of the proposed bill could be abused, and as a result, I can announce to the world that that section shall be deleted."
Sen. Kaka expressed gratitude for all the online contributions made both locally and internationally, saying that they further enriched the bill, and he called for more suggestions and debates concerning the issue.
He added that the bill was not aimed at gagging the media but targeted against online abuse and internet scammers.
Senator Gbenga Kaka (APC-Ogun) announced the decision after consulting with stakeholders, citing the uproar on social media and possible abuse and misinterpretation as reasons for deleting the bill.
The bill had stated that: “Anyone who intentionally propagates false information that could threaten the security of the country or capable of inciting the general public against the government through electronic messages shall be guilty of an offence. And upon conviction shall be sentenced to seven years imprisonment or N5 million fine.”
Senator Kaka, speaking at the press conference, said the reaction to the bill by those on social media led to its removal.
"Following the public hearing which was held after the second reading, the section 13 (3) of the provision was taken exception to by the social media. After consultations, we resolved that section 13 (3) of the proposed bill could be abused, and as a result, I can announce to the world that that section shall be deleted."
Sen. Kaka expressed gratitude for all the online contributions made both locally and internationally, saying that they further enriched the bill, and he called for more suggestions and debates concerning the issue.
He added that the bill was not aimed at gagging the media but targeted against online abuse and internet scammers.
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