The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG), on Wednesday, rejected the recent 50% hike in telecommunications tariffs approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), describing it as an assault on the already strained livelihoods of Nigerians.
The coalition stressed that the tariff increase, introduced amidst widespread economic hardship marked by hyperinflation, unemployment, and poverty, demonstrates a lack of consideration for the plight of the average Nigerian.
In a statement, the National Coordinator of CNG, Jamilu Charanchi, condemned the decision, calling it an act of insensitivity and economic injustice.
The coalition called on Nigerians, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders to resist the tariff hike and demand its reversal.
Charanchi said: “The CNG totally and unequivocally rejects the recent astronomical 50% increase in telecommunications tariffs in the country as sanctioned by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
“The CNG avers that this decision, coming at a time when Nigerians are reeling in immense economic hardship, is nothing short of an assault on the dignity and livelihoods of the people that have been economically pauperised.
“We are appalled by the insensitivity and lack of foresight demonstrated by the NCC and the Federal Ministry of Communications in approving such an exorbitant tariff hike.
“The CNG observes that at a time when millions of Nigerians are struggling to make ends meet due to hyperinflation, rising unemployment, and the pervasive effects of economic mismanagement, this decision is utterly indefensible.
“The NCC and the Ministry leadership have proven to protect their personal interests and have become insensitive to the plight of Nigerians. Therefore, we call for the resignation or immediate dismissal of the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC and the Minister of Communications for their failure to prioritize the welfare of Nigerian citizens over corporate and personal interests.”
The CNG vowed to take all necessary legal steps to protect the rights and welfare of Nigerians.
The group argued that the assertion that the decision followed “extensive consultations” with stakeholders is a complete misrepresentation of reality, as certainly, the millions of struggling telecom consumers were not part of the consultation.
The coalition opined that in the modern age, telecommunication services are not a luxury but a necessity for survival and economic participation in the global digital world.
He added, “Approving this hike, we contend, the NCC has jeopardized access to communication, education, healthcare, and commerce for the average Nigerian and further expanded the frontiers of the digital divide in the country.
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“We therefore call for the immediate suspension of the 50% hike in the tariffs and recommend instead a more reasonable adjustment of a maximum of 10%, which balances industry sustainability with the current economic realities in Nigeria.
“We also demand that the NCC engage in genuine, inclusive consultations with consumer advocacy groups, civil society organisations, and other grassroots stakeholders before implementing any tariff adjustments.”
The CNG reiterated its commitment to advocating for fair and equitable policies, urging Nigerians to unite against exploitative decisions and support measures that prioritise public welfare over corporate profits.
