Internet Freedom Under Siege: Activist Demands Unfettered Internet Access

Renowned human rights champion, Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, has issued a stern warning to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), urging them to safeguard uninterrupted internet access during the impending #EndBadGovernance demonstrations.

This comes amidst a social media frenzy, where numerous Nigerians have shared tales of their SIM cards being mysteriously barred, despite completing the mandatory linking process.

As the nationwide protest, slated to begin on August 1, gears up to spotlight the country’s economic quagmire and demand improved living standards, Adegboruwa cautioned telecom giants against attempting to stifle the upcoming dissent by curtailing internet access.

He emphasized that any such move would be perceived as a blatant attempt to muzzle citizens’ freedom of expression and assembly.

His statement partly reads:

“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 senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) intenisfied the imperative of ensuring unimpeded internet connectivity during the protest, allowing Nigerians to exercise their democratic rights without encumbrance.

He cited instances of telecom companies arbitrarily disconnecting subscribers, citing flimsy reasons such as incomplete NIN registration or linking.

The human rights activist urged the NCC to intervene, emphasizing the sacrosanct nature of the contract between telecom companies and their subscribers.

He also notified security agencies, requesting protection for planned public gatherings and rallies organized by the Take It Back Movement and other patriotic groups.

Signed:

Ebun-olu Adegboruwa

Human Rights Activist and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN)