Abuja, Jan. 26, 2025 – The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against the federal government and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) over the “arbitrary, unconstitutional, unlawful, unfair, and unreasonable” increase in telecom tariffs.
SERAP disclosed this on Sunday in a statement signed by its Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare.
It said the suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/111/2025, was filed at the Federal High Court, Abuja.
SERAP alleged that the tariff hike infringed on the rights of the citizens to freedom of expression and access to information as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution and international treaties.
I“The unilateral decision by the NCC to approve a 50% hike in telecom tariffs is arbitrary, unconstitutional, and unfair.
“This action contravenes both the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act of 2018 and international human rights standards.
“It also reflects a failure to consult key stakeholders such as the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission,” said SERAP’s lawyer, Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, SAN.
“The NCC’s action undermines citizens’ right to seek, receive, and impart information through communication media without discrimination,” the lawsuit read.
“This tariff hike is happening at a time when Nigerians are grappling with a cost-of-living crisis. Many are struggling to afford basic necessities, let alone higher communication costs.
“The move adds to existing burdens, including fuel subsidy removal, rising electricity tariffs, and soaring food prices.”
SERAP is, therefore, seeking a court declaration that the tariff hike violates constitutional provisions and international human rights treaties, as well as an injunction to halt the implementation of the hike. (GBN)
