Telcos Deny Sabotaging #EndBadGovernance Protest Amidst Rising Tensions

 As the nation braces for the #EndBadGovernance protest scheduled for August 1-10, a growing rift has emerged between telecommunications companies (telcos) and civil society groups. At the heart of the controversy are allegations that telcos are deliberately disrupting network services to stifle the planned demonstrations.

Prominent lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, has been vocal in accusing telcos of intentionally disconnecting subscribers under various pretexts, particularly in recent days. He claims these actions are a calculated attempt to hinder the protest’s mobilization and limit public discourse.

“For the past few days, there has been a surge in complaints about network restrictions,” Adegboruwa stated. “Many people have been disconnected without clear reasons, while others are being told their lines are blocked due to unlinked NINs. This is a clear pattern emerging as the protest draws closer.”

Adegboruwa further emphasized the potential consequences of such disruptions, stating, “Many Nigerians rely on their phones for business, essential services, and even emergencies. To deliberately cut off communication is not only unethical but potentially dangerous.”

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has been urged to intervene and protect the rights of subscribers. Adegboruwa called on the regulatory body to investigate the matter and ensure that telcos adhere to their contractual obligations.

However, the Association of Licensed Telecom Operators in Nigeria (ALTON) has vehemently denied the allegations, asserting that such claims are unfounded and without merit. ALTON Chairman Engr Gbenga Adebayo emphasized the critical role of telecommunications in modern society and the industry’s commitment to providing uninterrupted services.

“These allegations are completely baseless,” Adebayo said. “Telcos operate under a strict regulatory framework and have a social contract with the public to deliver essential services. To suggest that we would intentionally disrupt communications is absurd.”

Adebayo attributed the recent network challenges to the ongoing SIM-NIN linkage exercise, which has necessitated the disconnection of unregistered lines. He emphasized that these measures are in compliance with government regulations and aimed at enhancing national security.

The ongoing dispute has ignited a heated debate about the role of telecommunications in a democratic society and the potential impact of network disruptions on civic engagement. As the August 1 protest date approaches, the situation is likely to intensify, with both sides digging in their heels.

Civil society groups have vowed to proceed with the protest, calling on Nigerians to exercise their constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression. Telcos, on the other hand, have maintained their stance that they are neutral parties and will continue to operate within the confines of the law.