The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Federal Government and telecommunications companies (telcos) to reverse the recently implemented 50 per cent increase in the cost of calls and data.
The organization has described the tariff hike as “unlawful” and vowed to take legal action if the decision is not rescinded within the stipulated time frame.
In a tweet, SERAP stated: “The Tinubu administration and telcos must immediately reverse the unlawful increase in calls and data costs. We’ll see in court if the 50 per cent tariff hike is not reversed within 48 hours.”
The organization emphasized that the tariff increase infringes on Nigerians’ right to affordable communication, as guaranteed under international human rights standards.
It also expressed concern about the wider socio-economic implications, particularly for small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) that rely on affordable internet services for operations.
Many Nigerians, already burdened by inflation and the removal of fuel subsidies, have expressed frustration over the tariff adjustment.
SERAP argued that such decisions, affecting millions, must be guided by constitutional and legal provisions and should involve transparent public consultations.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) announced the tariff adjustment in a statement signed by its Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka.
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The commission approved the 50 per cent hike as a compromise, noting that some operators had requested over a 100% increase due to rising operational costs.
“The NCC has prioritized striking a balance between protecting telecoms consumers and ensuring the sustainability of the industry, including the thousands of indigenous vendors and suppliers who form a critical part of the telecommunications ecosystem,” the statement read.
The NCC justified the decision as a necessary measure to address escalating costs in the telecom sector, including energy, infrastructure, and foreign exchange rates.
With the hike, the following changes have taken effect: Calls: Minimum price increased from ₦6.40 to ₦9.60 per minute; average rates rose from ₦11 to ₦15.50 per minute.
SMS: Cost per message rose from ₦4 to ₦6.
Data: Average price per gigabyte increased from ₦350 to ₦525.
Public Reactions and Call for Transparency
The tariff hike has sparked widespread discontent among Nigerians, many of whom rely on telecommunication services for business, education, and social interaction. Critics argue that the increase will exacerbate the high cost of living and hinder economic activities.
SERAP has urged the NCC and relevant agencies to provide a detailed explanation for the increase, insisting that transparency and fairness must be prioritized.
The ultimatum issued by SERAP signals potential legal battles ahead as Nigerians await further developments.