NCC backtracks on Starlink statement, calls it “error”

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has withdrawn its recent press statement regarding Starlink’s operations, admitting that the statement was released in error.

In a message to media outlets, the NCC urged editors and journalists to retract any related publications, effectively correcting its earlier stance on the satellite internet service provider.
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“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 It is hereby WITHDRAWN.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, Mr. Kunle Azeez, stated.

The commission’s Director of Public Affairs, Mr. Reuben Muoka, had announced plans to take enforcement measures against Starlink for raising its subscription prices in Nigeria without the regulator’s approval.

Persecondnews recalls that Starlink recently notified its customers of a significant price hike, effective for both existing and new subscribers.

The monthly subscription fee saw a staggering 97% increase, surging from N38,000 to N75,000.

The cost of Starlink’s hardware kit has increased by 34%, from N440,000 to N590,000, further burdening new users.

However, NCC maintains that it did not authorize the price increase.

Muoka said: “The decision by Starlink to unilaterally review its subscription packages upwards did not receive the approval of the Nigerian Communications Commission.”

The commission expressed surprise at Starlink’s decision to hike prices without awaiting approval, despite submitting a formal request for a price adjustment to the NCC.

Muoka added: “The action of the company appears to be a contravention of Sections 108 and 111 of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003 and Starlink’s licence conditions regarding tariffs.

“The commission will, therefore, take appropriate enforcement measures against any action by a licensee that is capable of eroding the regulatory stability of the telecommunications industry.”

Section 108 of the NCA 2003 gives the NCC authority to regulate telecom tariffs, stating that no licensee can impose charges for services without obtaining tariff approval from the commission.

Furthermore, Section 111 of the Act authorizes the NCC to impose financial penalties on licensees that exceed approved tariffs, superseding any conflicting legal provisions.

The Act reads: “Notwithstanding any other provision of this Act, the commission shall prescribe and enforce appropriate financial penalties upon any holder of an individual license who exceeds the tariff rates duly approved by the commission for the provision of any of its services.”