Aisha Buhari backs social media bill, says China controls its 1.3 billion people

The wife of the president, Aisha Buhari has backed the proposed bill seeking to regulate of social media.

Speaking at the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) general assembly meeting on Friday in Abuja, Aisha said the issue of social media is a serious one.

She said China has been able to control the use of social media for its 1.3 billion population, so there is no reason why the federal government cannot ”control 180 million citizens”.

On November 6, the senate reintroduced a bill seeking to regulate social media in the country.

Some Nigerians have protested against the bill sponsored by Mohammed Sani Musa, senator representing Niger east, saying its introduction is a plot to clamp down on free speech and public criticism.

“On this issue of social media, you cannot just sit in the comfort of your house and tweet that the Vice President has resigned. It is a serious issue,” Aisha said.

“If China can control over 1.3 billion people on social media, I see no reason why Nigeria cannot attempt controlling only 180 million people.”

The president’s wife also lamented that things are getting out of hand in the country because citizens do not have access to basic amenities.