Twitter ban: Gov. Ortom knocks Buhari, says action ill-advised

Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom describes Federal Government’s ban on Twitter operations in the country as an ill-advised and a diversion from the core issues of insecurity and injustice plaguing the nation.

In a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Terver Akase which was sent to CAPITAL POST on Sunday, the Governor says the Twitter ban offers no solution to any of the myriad of problems facing the country, and stresses that the move is only capable of heightening tensions and fueling suspicions among Nigerians over the real motives of the Federal Government.

He states that the act of suspending Twitter amounts to suppressing freedom of expression, gagging social media and undermining fundamental human rights of Nigerians, a development he says contravenes Chapter four of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

Governor Ortom emphasizes the need for the Federal Government to listen to the views and yearnings of the people to enable it address the challenges confronting the nation.

He calls for the reversal of the ban to reassure the international community that Nigeria has not become a hostile country to investors.

The Governor appeals to those saddled with the responsibility of advising the Presidency to always put national interest above personal, regional, ethnic, religious and political affiliations.