 A United States Department of State has condemned Nigeria's Twitter ban and its threats to arrest and prosecute Nigerians found using the app, saying the policy has no place in a democracy. The department requested that Nigeria's government respects its citizens' rights to freedom of expression and reverse the ban on social media platform, which has been extremely popular in Africa's most populous nation. The United States is likewise concerned that the Nigerian National Broadcasting Commission ordered all television and radio broadcasters to cease using Twitter. For 60 years, the United States has been proud to partner with Nigeria on a broad array of issues and objectives, with the cornerstone of this relationship being premised on the vibrancy of democracy, a principle embraced by our two nations. Unduly restricting the media and all Nigerians from reporting, gathering, or disseminating opinions and information has no place in a democracy and undermines our partnership. Freedom of expression and access to factual and accurate information provided by independent media are foundational to prosperous and secure democratic societies. We join the UN Human Rights Office and partner nations who call for Nigeria to respect freedom of expression online and offline.