FCCPC Assures Nigerians of Protection Amid Telecom Tariff Hike

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has reassured Nigerians that their interests will be safeguarded amidst the controversial increase in telecommunications tariffs. This follows a push by telecom companies for a 100% tariff hike, which was recently approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) at a reduced 50% increase.

The NCC explained that the 50% hike, which is half of what telecom companies had initially requested, was approved in consideration of the financial challenges faced by Nigerian households and businesses.

In an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Friday, Tunji Bello, the Chief Executive Officer of FCCPC, emphasized that the Commission’s primary role is to protect Nigerian consumers. He acknowledged that while the tariff increase was inevitable, FCCPC had ensured that it did not exceed 50%. Bello also highlighted that the Commission had recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the NCC, the regulatory body overseeing the telecommunications sector. He stated that the MoU ensures fair pricing, service efficiency, and consumer protection.

“We are committed to monitoring how consumers are affected by this tariff increase, particularly in terms of service delivery. If consumers are dissatisfied, they can reach out to us, and we will address their concerns,” Bello said. The MoU, according to Bello, includes provisions that allow FCCPC to track the quality of service provided by telecom companies, ensuring that consumers are compensated if they experience issues.

The proposed tariff hike has sparked protests from labor unions and civil society groups. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) initially planned a protest for Tuesday but postponed it after engaging in discussions with the Federal Government. The NLC and the government agreed to form a 10-member committee, with equal representation from both sides, to review the issue and report back in two weeks.

Meanwhile, the Trade Union Congress (TUC) has threatened industrial action if the Federal Government does not reverse its approval of the 50% tariff increase. The TUC condemned the hike as poorly timed and an act of economic oppression against Nigerians.