In a decisive move aimed at protecting Nigerian consumers from rising costs, the House of Representatives has directed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, to immediately suspend any planned increase in telecom tariffs.
This directive follows widespread public outcry and concerns raised by lawmakers over the economic strain a tariff hike could impose on millions of Nigerians already grappling with inflation, high fuel costs, and an unstable economy. The issue has sparked heated debates across social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, where Nigerians have expressed strong opposition to any additional financial burden on telecom users.
Why the House of Representatives Intervened
The lawmakers, during a plenary session, emphasized that any increase in telecom service charges at this critical time would be insensitive to the economic realities facing Nigerians. They pointed out that mobile data, call rates, and SMS charges have already been rising due to the high cost of operations for telecom providers.
According to the House, while the NCC and telecom operators have justified the need for a tariff adjustment, the government must first prioritize consumer protection and explore alternative measures to support the sector without passing excessive costs onto the masses.
During the deliberations, lawmakers noted:
“Telecom services have become an essential part of daily life for Nigerians—used for business, education, healthcare, and social interactions. Increasing tariffs at a time when citizens are struggling with the high cost of living is unacceptable.”
Public Reaction: Nigerians Protest on Social Media
Since news of the proposed tariff hike broke, Nigerians have taken to social media platforms like X, Facebook, and Instagram to express frustration over the possibility of paying more for telecom services.
One X user wrote:
“Everything in this country keeps getting more expensive—electricity, food, transport, now calls and data? Where does it end?”
Another post on LinkedIn from a telecom industry analyst read:
“Telecom operators are struggling with high operational costs due to forex volatility and diesel prices, but the government must find a middle ground that does not overburden Nigerians.”
On Facebook, advocacy groups and civil society organizations have also called for mass mobilization against the increase, urging the government to intervene before telecom services become unaffordable for low-income earners.
NCC and Minister to Appear Before Reps for Further Clarifications
Following the House directive, the NCC and the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy have been summoned to appear before lawmakers to provide clarity on the rationale behind the proposed tariff adjustment.
The House is expected to demand explanations on:
- The economic justification for the planned hike
- Measures to cushion the impact on consumers
- Alternative solutions to support telecom operators without increasing service charges
Next Steps: Will the Tariff Hike Be Reversed?
While the directive to suspend the tariff increase is a major relief for Nigerians, telecom operators and the NCC are likely to push for a negotiated solution. There is speculation that stakeholders in the industry may lobby for partial adjustments or government subsidies to address rising operational costs.
For now, all eyes remain on the NCC and the Minister’s response to the House of Representatives’ directive, as Nigerians await clarity on whether they will be spared yet another financial burden.
