The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has begun action against Starlink, a satellite internet service owned by Elon Musk, after the company raised its data prices without approval.
This was revealed by Reuben Muoka, the NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, on Tuesday.
Mr. Muoka said that Starlink’s decision to increase its subscription costs violated the Nigerian Communications Act of 2003, specifically Sections 108 and 111.
He also mentioned that the company failed to follow the rules set in their license regarding price changes.
“The decision by Starlink to unilaterally review their subscription packages upwards did not receive the approval of the Nigerian Communications Commission,” said Mr. Muoka.
“The action of the company is in contravention of Sections 108 and 111 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, and Starlink’s License Conditions regarding tariffs.
“The Commission commenced pre-enforcement action on the licensee on the 3rd of October, 2024,” the statement added.
Beyond Boders further reports that last week, Starlink announced it had doubled its monthly subscription fees in Nigeria. The cost for the standard residential plan rose from N38,000 to N75,000.
Additionally, the price for the hardware increased from N440,000 to N590,000. The company said the price hike was due to high inflation.
This announcement led to public outrage, with many criticizing the NCC for allowing Starlink’s price increase while blocking local internet service providers from raising their own tariffs.
The Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has long called for a review of data and voice prices, but the NCC has refused to approve any changes.
