The Nigerian Senate has initiated moves to investigate major telecommunications companies operating in the country over persistent network failures and allegations that subscribers lose airtime when calls fail to connect, drop unexpectedly or become interrupted.
The proposed investigation is aimed at addressing growing concerns among Nigerians who continue to experience poor telecommunications services despite paying for airtime and other communication services.
As part of the move, the Senate has directed its Committee on Communications to invite the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and relevant telecommunications operators to explain the recurring network challenges and investigate allegations of improper airtime deductions.
The committee is also expected to determine the financial losses subscribers may have suffered as a result of failed and interrupted calls and submit its findings to the Senate within four weeks.
The motion that prompted the investigation was sponsored by Senator Tahir Monguno, representing Borno North Senatorial District, and seconded by Senator Ned Nwoko of Delta North.
During deliberations, lawmakers expressed dissatisfaction with the experiences of telecommunications subscribers, particularly complaints that airtime is deducted even when calls fail to connect or are abruptly terminated due to network-related problems.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, while supporting the need for accountability, directed the committee to engage the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, alongside the leadership of the NCC.
Akpabio further warned that the Senate could summon the communications minister, regulatory officials and telecommunications operators if their explanations do not adequately address the concerns raised by subscribers.
The investigation will cover complaints involving major operators, including MTN, Airtel, Globacom (Glo) and T2 Mobile, with particular attention to service quality, billing practices and the protection of consumers’ rights.
The Senate’s intervention is expected to put renewed pressure on telecommunications companies and industry regulators to improve network reliability, ensure transparency in airtime billing and introduce measures that prevent subscribers from paying for services they do not receive.
For millions of Nigerians who depend on mobile networks for business transactions, communication, education and other daily activities, the outcome of the investigation could represent an important step towards improved service delivery and greater accountability in the telecommunications sector.
[…] Senate Takes on MTN, Airtel, Glo, T2 Over Poor Network and Alleged Unfair Airtime Charges […]