“Telcos Working with FG to Limit Internet Access Ahead of August Protest” – Adegboruwa

Senior lawyer and activist, Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, has accused telecommunications companies of conspiring with the Nigerian government to restrict internet access as citizens gear up for nationwide protests against economic hardships.

Adegboruwa highlighted that in recent days, several telecom companies have been disconnecting subscribers without valid reasons. He mentioned that some companies cited issues like lack of NIN registration or linking, while others provided no justification 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,” Adegboruwa stated on Sunday.

He expressed concern that these disconnections are part of a broader strategy to limit internet access and stymie the planned protests set for August.

“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.

He called on the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to investigate the matter and protect the rights of subscribers.

Adegboruwa’s statement resonates with numerous complaints from Nigerians who have reported losing internet access through social media.

Omoyele Sowore, a prominent activist organizing the August 1 protests, warned on Sunday that demonstrations could start at telecom companies’ offices if they continue to limit internet access ahead of the protests.

The situation recalls the historic EndSARS protests, during which there was a telecom network outage on the night police opened fire on protesters at Lekki Toll Gate.