Adegboruwa: Telcos trying to frustrate protest by restricting internet access

Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, a senior advocate of Nigeria (SAN), says there are indications that telecommunications companies (telcos) in the country are trying to frustrate the planned protest.

In a statement on Sunday, Adegboruwa said complaints of network restrictions among citizens have risen as the protest nears.

The demonstration, slated to begin on August 1, is against the economic hardship in the country.

Adegboruwa warned that telcos should not attempt to sabotage the planned protest by restricting internet access among displeased citizens.

“For the past few days, some telecom companies have been disconnecting their subscribers for flimsy and untenable reasons,” the SAN said.

“Some allege lack of NIN registration or linking, while others didn’t give any reason at all.

“This action is coming on the heels of the proposed struggle of the people against hunger, poverty, suffering, and the suffocating economic policies of the Tinubu administration.

“From all indications, it would seem that the underlying target of the telecom companies is to limit the reach of their customers in order to restrict access and thus frustrate the protests.”

Adegboruwa said contracts between telecommunication companies and their subscribers remain sacrosanct and should not be tampered with.

“Sufficient information and opportunity should be given for subscribers to remedy any alleged breach or error,” he said.

“So many telephone users deploy their numbers for their businesses and other lawful engagements, not to talk of those who may have medical and health-related emergencies.”

The human rights lawyer urged the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to look into the matter.

Adegboruwa had written security agencies requesting protection for protesters.