The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project has given the Federal Government and telecommunications companies, a 48-hour ultimatum to reverse the recent 50% increase in call and data charges.
SERAP issued this demand through a tweet on Tuesday, calling the tariff hike “unlawful” and threatening legal action if the increase is not rescinded within the specified timeframe.
The organization 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% tariff hike is not reversed within 48 hours.”
SERAP emphasized that the tariff hike violates Nigerians’ rights to affordable access to communication, as guaranteed by international human rights standards.
The increase has sparked widespread concern among Nigerians, many of whom depend on telecommunication services for business, education, and social connectivity.
The 50% hike in call and data tariffs adds to the already high cost of living, exacerbated by inflation and subsidy removal.
Many small and medium-scale enterprises that rely on affordable internet services could face operational challenges, potentially affecting productivity and revenue.
SERAP has urged the NCC and relevant government agencies to provide a clear explanation for the tariff increase, arguing that it lacks transparency and public consultation.
The group asserts that any decision impacting millions of Nigerians must comply with constitutional and legal provisions.
The NCC approved requests from network operators for tariff adjustments due to rising operational costs, marking the first rate change since 2013.
The decision, announced in a statement by Director of Public Affairs Reuben Muoka on Monday, allows for a maximum 50% increase in tariffs, significantly lower than the over 100% hike proposed by some operators.
