HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TO ENACT LAWS TO PROTECT CHILDREN ON THE INTERNET 06-03-24
By Sadiq Aminu The House of Representatives has pledged to enact laws to ensure the safety and wellbeing of children on the internet.
The Chairman House of Representatives Committee on Justice, Mr. Olumide Osoba stated this while declaring open a public hearing on the Bill for an Act to Provide for Enactment of Child Online Access Protection Bill 2023 and other Issues of Online Violence against Nigerian Child and other Related Matters at the National Assembly Complex.
Mr. Osoba, said the safety and wellbeing of the children in this digital age should be the utmost priority of the 10th Assembly hence the need to enact laws to address the issue of online violence and protect young ones from its harmful effects.
“The internet has undoubtedly revolutionized our society, connecting people from all works of life and providing countless opportunities for learning, growth and entertainment.
“However, it also brings with it risk, particularly for the vulnerable minds of the online world have unfortunately given rise to various forms of violence, including cyber bullying, harassment, and even exploitation.
“As responsible members of this society, it is our duty to ensure that our children are shielded from such harm.”
The Chairman said the proposed Bill not only acknowledges the potential danger online violence poses to the youth, but also aims to put effective measures in place to prevent and address such incidents.
“By setting up regulations to restrict access to harmful content, imposing stricter penalties for perpetrators, and promoting digital literacy programs, we can create a safer online environment for our children to explore and thrive in,” he said.
He said the Bill not only focuses on protecting the children but also embraces the importance of fostering responsible digital citizenship.
“This Bill for sight in including educational initiatives demonstrates an understanding that prevention and awareness are equally essential components in countering online violence.
The Committee Chairman said the Bill recognizes the need for collaborative effort between parents, educators, internet service providers and the government to protect children on the internet.
“By ensuring a holistic approach to the issue, we can collectively work towards an internet culture that promotes empathy, respect, and understanding, rather than one that fosters violence and harm”.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr Tajudeen Abbas, said parents must do everything possible to ensure that their children are protected.
The speaker represented by the Chief Whip Usman Bello Kumo, said, the Bill was straightforward and seeks legislation to ensure all hands are on deck in protecting the child from being harmed.