Friday, 11th June 2021: The United States Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, on Thursday urged Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari to restore Twitter operations in the country as restricting the use of social media has no place in a democracy.

This was contained in a statement signed by Blinken’s spokesman, Ned Price.

The statement read, “The United States condemns the ongoing suspension of Twitter by the Nigerian government and subsequent threats to arrest and prosecute Nigerians who use Twitter. The United States is likewise concerned that the Nigerian National Broadcasting Commission ordered all television and radio broadcasters to cease using twitter.

“Unduly restricting the ability of Nigerians to report, gather, and disseminate opinions and information has no place in a democracy. Freedom of expression and access to information both online and offline are foundational to prosperous and secure democratic societies.

“We support Nigeria as it works towards unity, peace, and prosperity. As its partner, we call on the government to respect its citizens’ right to freedom of expression by reversing this suspension.”