Human rights lawyer Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa has urged the Nigerian Communications Commission to ensure uninterrupted internet access during the upcoming #EndBadGovernance protest.
His call comes amid social media outrage, with many Nigerians reporting that their SIM cards have been deactivated despite completing the required linking process on platform X.
The nationwide protest, set to begin on August 1, aims to highlight the country’s economic struggles and demand better living conditions.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Senior Advocate of Nigeria warned telecom companies against obstructing the demonstration by restricting internet access.
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.
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“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.”
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