Social Media Bill: 'Excesses of users must be stopped' - Saraki says no going back

 Senate President, Bukola Saraki has stressed the resolve of the Upper Chamber to pursue to the end, the proposed bill seeking the censorship of social media in Nigeria.

Nigerians had criticised the bill, which passed second reading in the Senate on Wednesday, Dec. 2, saying it would be a violation of their freedom of speech right.

The bill, sponsored by Senator Ibn Na’Allah, seeks a two-year jail term for social media critics and abusers.

Saraki, who spoke during today's, Dec. 3, plenary session, acknowledged that there is freedom of speech in Nigeria's law book, but noted in strong terms that the Senate will not allow people to hide under the shadow of Social Media and continue to publish cruel reports and statements to undermine the integrity of the Senate.

READ: Social Media Bill: Na’Allah confirms 2-year jail term for abusers, says all senators are aware

He, however, admitted the important role of social media in the country's growing democracy.

“People must be held responsible for their action. I believe what has been raised is important,” Saraki said, adding that the Senate will not give room for 'a few bad eggs’ to contaminate the social media.