Why We Didn’t Shut Down Social Media During #EndSARS Protests – FG

The federal government on Monday disclosed why it didn’t block access to social media during the ubiquitous EndSARS protesters last months.

Federal government said the decision to allow free access to social during the two weeks long demonstrations was in line with its commitment to freedom of expression.

Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare, made the disclosure when he featured on Channels Television’s programme Sunrise Daily.

He noted that the idea of of shutting down social media during the #EndSARS protests was broached, but the government decided against it.

The Minister pointed out that other countries had taken some steps to rein in on Internet usage, but Nigeria has not done so.

Dare, however, noted that the Internet and social media have tremendous benefits but fake news must be curtailed.

“There must be some level of responsibility and some level of punishment to those that create chaos out of mischief in our country.

“The fact that our youths used it to mobilise is commendable. But the talk about the regulation of the social media has been around for a while. We’ve seen other countries taking practical steps in that direction, this country has not done that.

“Even during the #EndSARS protests, the country had an option (but) the country never went for that final option.

“There was no time the cyberspace was shut down, people were still able to connect themselves through the various social media platforms. And that shows a government that is committed to the rights of freedom and association of every citizen of this country,” he said.