Withdraw social media bill or face lawsuit, SERAP tells NASS

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has issued a warning to the National Assembly of Nigeria (NASS) regarding the proposed Social Media Bill 2026. SERAP views the bill as an attempt to control online expression, and is threatening legal action if it is not withdrawn. The organization argues that the bill would undermine Nigerians' right to freedom of expression, which is a fundamental human right.

The National Assembly of Nigeria has been considering the proposed Social Media Bill 2026, but the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has now entered the fray. SERAP's warning to NASS highlights the importance of protecting online expression in Nigeria. The organization is concerned that the bill would give the government excessive control over social media platforms, allowing it to suppress dissenting voices and limit access to information.

The proposed Social Media Bill 2026 has been making its way through the National Assembly, but details about its provisions are scarce. However, SERAP's warning suggests that the bill may contain provisions that would allow the government to regulate online expression in a manner that is inconsistent with international human rights standards. The organization argues that such regulation would be a backdoor attempt to control online expression and undermine Nigerians' right to freedom of expression.

The outcome of this matter has not yet been reported. However, the warning issued by SERAP highlights the importance of protecting online expression in Nigeria and the need for NASS to engage in a more transparent and inclusive process when considering legislation related to online expression.

The proposed Social Media Bill 2026 raises important questions about the balance between regulating online expression and protecting fundamental human rights. Practitioners should be prepared for potential litigation related to this matter and should engage in ongoing dialogue with clients and stakeholders about the implications of the bill.