Airtime Charges: Senate Orders NCC, Telecom Operators to Face Probe

By Bashir Mayere, Abuja

The Senate has directed its Committee on Communications to invite the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and telecommunications operators to investigate complaints of unjustified airtime deductions from subscribers.

The resolution followed the consideration of a motion sponsored by the Senate Chief Whip, Senator Mohammed Monguno, representing Borno North.

Presenting the motion on behalf of Senator Monguno, the Deputy Senate Leader, Senator Lola Ashiru, said telecommunications services had become essential to individuals, businesses and public institutions, with millions of Nigerians relying on mobile networks daily.

He expressed concern that subscribers frequently experienced dropped calls, failed connections and interrupted conversations despite being charged for airtime without receiving the corresponding communication services.

Seconding the motion, Senator Ned Nwoko described the issue as one requiring urgent attention, noting that telecommunications challenges affected virtually every Nigerian.

Following deliberations, the Senate mandated its Committee on Communications to investigate complaints relating to failed calls, dropped calls and interrupted connections, assess the financial losses incurred by subscribers and recommend appropriate legislative measures.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio also directed the committee to engage the Minister responsible for telecommunications and the leadership of the NCC, and submit its findings and recommendations within four weeks.