The National President of the Association of Telecommunications Subscribers, Deolu Ogunbanjo, has criticised the recent 50% tariff increase by telecom operators, arguing that it is an unjustified burden on Nigerians.
During an interview on Nigeria Info’s Morning Crossfire, Ogunbanjo attributed the need for the increase to significant debts within the industry, particularly inter-operator debts and outstanding payments from banks.
Ogunbanjo explained that telecom operators are owed billions of Naira by other operators and financial institutions, hindering their ability to invest in network infrastructure and improve services. He emphasised that alternative funding options, such as capital market offerings, should be explored before resorting to increased tariffs.
"Nigerians want to buy into business, they will definitely buy if you come to the capital market," he said.
He also expressed his opposition to a nationwide boycott proposed by labour unions, but rather called for intervention from regulatory bodies like the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and the Bankers Committee to address the outstanding debts and ensure the financial stability of the telecom sector.
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