The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has withdrawn a statement it issued accusing Starlink, a satellite internet service provider, of hiking data tariff without approval.
In a message addressed to media outlets on Tuesday, the NCC acknowledged that the statement was released in error, urging editors and journalists to retract any related publications.
“Kindly note that this press statement on Starlink was issued in error. It is hereby WITHDRAWN. If already published, kindly BRING DOWN,” the message, signed by the NCC’s Manager of Media Relations, Kunle Azeez, stated.
The commission’s Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, had announced plans to take enforcement measures against Starlink, for raising its subscription prices in Nigeria without the regulator’s approval.
In a message sent to its customers last week, Starlink said the price hike would affect both existing and new customers.
Additionally, new users will face a higher cost for the Starlink kit (the hardware needed for installation), which is now priced at N590,000, up 34% from the previous price of N440,000.
However, the NCC stated that it had not approved the price increase.
“The decision by Starlink to unilaterally review its subscription packages upwards did not receive the approval of the Nigerian Communications Commission,” Muoka said.
He explained that the commission was “surprised” when the company announced the price changes, despite having filed a request with the NCC for a price adjustment, which the regulator had yet to approve.
Leave a Reply