NCC urged to ensure uninterrupted internet access during protest

Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa (SAN)

Human rights lawyer, Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, has called on the Nigerian Communications Commission to ensure uninterrupted internet access during the planned #EndBadGovernance protest.

This follows outrage on social media, with many Nigerians sharing their experiences and complaints on platform X that their SIM cards were barred despite completing the linking exercise.

The nationwide protest, scheduled to commence on August 1, aims to draw attention to the country’s economic woes and demand improved living conditions.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Senior Advocate of Nigeria cautioned telecom companies against attempting to stifle the upcoming demonstration against economic hardship by limiting internet access for Nigerians.

Adegboruwa warned that any attempt to restrict internet connectivity would be seen as an attempt to sabotage the citizens’ right to free speech and assembly.

He emphasised the importance of ensuring uninterrupted internet access during the protest, allowing Nigerians to exercise their democratic rights without hindrance.

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

“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,” the SAN said.

Adegboruwa emphasised that the contract between telecom companies and their subscribers remains sacrosanct and should not be tampered with arbitrarily.

He added, “Sufficient information and opportunity should be given for subscribers to remedy any alleged breach or error. So many telephone users deploy their numbers for their businesses and other lawful engagements, not to mention those who may have medical and health-related emergencies.

“The NCC is urged to look into this and come to the rescue of the subscribers.”

The human rights activist had notified security agencies, requesting protection for planned public meetings, rallies, and processions organised by the Take It Back Movement, its members, and other patriotic Nigerians and groups.

In a letter dated Friday, July 26, 2024, Adegboruwa, writing as solicitor to the Take It Back Movement, informed the Inspector General of Police and the Director of the Department of State Services that the planned rallies would commence from August 1 to 10, 2024, or any time thereafter.

He said the rallies would be held at the Eagle Square in Abuja and other public spaces in the capital cities of the 36 states and the headquarters of the 774 local government councils.