In anticipation of the nationwide protest planned for August, human rights lawyer Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa has called on the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to investigate allegations that telecommunication operators are disconnecting subscribers.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Senior Advocate of Nigeria cautioned telcos against attempting to undermine the impending protest against economic hardship by restricting internet access for dissatisfied citizens.
“Recently, several telecom companies have been disconnecting their subscribers for flimsy and unjustifiable reasons. Some cite issues related to NIN registration or linking, while others provide no explanation at all.
“This move comes just as the public is gearing up to fight against hunger, poverty, suffering, and the stifling economic policies of the Tinubu administration.
“Indications suggest that the underlying goal of these telecom companies is to limit their customers’ reach, ultimately hindering access to information and frustrating the protests,” Adegboruwa stated.
He emphasized that the agreement between telecom companies and their subscribers is sacred and should not be disrupted lightly.
“Subscribers should be given adequate information and opportunities to address any reported breaches or errors.
“Many mobile users rely on their numbers for business and other legitimate purposes, not to mention the urgent medical and health-related communications they may need.
“The NCC is urged to intervene and protect the rights of subscribers.”
The senior lawyer has also reached out to security agencies, requesting protection for protesters under the Take It Back Movement next month.
The protest against economic hardship, gaining momentum on social media, is scheduled to take place across all states of the Federation, as well as in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, in August.
