Senior Nigerian lawyer Ebun Adegboruwa has raised concerns about a potential collaboration between telecommunication companies and the Nigerian Federal Government to limit internet access ahead of the August 1st nationwide protests.
Adegboruwa’s statement comes amid reports that several telecom companies have been disconnecting subscribers for what he describes as flimsy and unjustified reasons, such as issues with National Identification Number (NIN) registration or no reason at all.
Adegboruwa suggests that these actions are a strategic move to restrict internet access and thus impede the planned protests against hunger, poverty, and the economic policies of President Tinubu’s administration.
He has called on the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to investigate these disconnections and protect the rights of subscribers.
The concerns voiced by Adegboruwa reflect a broader dissatisfaction among Nigerians, many of whom have taken to social media to complain about disruptions in their internet service.
Activist Omoyele Sowore, who is mobilizing support for the August 1st protests, has warned that the demonstrations might target telecom companies’ offices if the internet restrictions continue.
Adegboruwa’s warning echoes historical precedents, such as during the EndSARS protests against police brutality, when there was a network outage on the night of the violent crackdown at the Lekki Toll Gate.
The current situation has raised fears that similar tactics might be employed to stifle dissent and limit public mobilization as Nigerians prepare to voice their grievances about the current economic conditions.