The Association of Licensed Telecommunication Operators of Nigeria, stated that the recent disconnection of SIM cards done by mobile operators, is not related to the planned national protest.
The nationwide protest which is set to start on August 1, is to draw attention to the country’s economic challenges, and demand improved living conditions.
This was clarified in a statement. The disconnections are part of a scheduled exercise to National Identification Numbers with SIM registration records. And it was set to conclude on July 31, 2024.
The disconnection was planned for April 15, 2024, but it was postponed to July 31 by the Nigeria Communications Commission, due to requests for extensions because of subscriber challenges.
The Federal Government had insisted on SIM card blocks for those who has not linked their sims to NINs in 2020.
Because it is a measure that was introduced in response to the increase of terrorist attacks, kidnappings, and banditry during the final months of President Buhari’s administration.
The association said that :“The fact of the matter is that the harmonisation exercise of the SIM registration database and National Identity database has been ongoing for several months”.”
Gbenga Adebayo, the Chairman of ALTON, has explained that this harmonisation process had been underway for several months.
And it aimed to enhance the accuracy and integrity of the National SIM registration database.
The group explained that: “We advise such customers to contact their service providers through communicated channels for resolution of the issue.”
ALTON expressed its commitment to supporting government efforts and also in safeguarding communication rights, data privacy, and security.
On Sunday, July 28, telecom companies were cautioned by Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, a human right lawyer.
They were cautioned against attempting to disrupt the upcoming demonstration against economic hardship by limiting internet access for Nigerians.
The NCC were implored to make sure there is uninterrupted internet access during the #EndBadGovernance protest. This was said in a statement by the Senior Advocate Of Nigeria
Adegboruwa warned that any attempts to restrict internet connection would be seen as a restriction on citizens’ rights to free speech and assembly.
He stressed the importance of allowing Nigerians to exercise their democratic rights without obstruction during the protest.
He said: “For the past few days, some telecom companies have been disconnecting their subscribers for flimsy and untenable reasons.”
“Some claim it is due to a lack of NIN registration or linking, while others have provided no reason at all.”
“This action coincides with the people’s struggle against hunger, poverty, suffering, and the oppressive economic policies of the Tinubu administration.”
