The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has made a surprising U-turn, withdrawing its recent press statement regarding Starlink, a satellite internet service provider.
In a brief message to media outlets on Tuesday, the NCC attributed the statement to an error and urged editors and journalists to retract any related publications.
Kunle Azeez, NCC’s Manager of Media Relations, stated, “Kindly note that this press statement on Starlink was issued in error. It is hereby WITHDRAWN. If already published, kindly BRING DOWN.” This development comes after Reuben Muoka, Director of Public Affairs, announced plans to take enforcement measures against Starlink for increasing subscription prices without regulatory approval.
Starlink recently informed customers of a price hike affecting both existing and new subscribers. The monthly subscription fee jumped 97% from N38,000 to N75,000, while new users will pay N590,000 for the Starlink kit, a 34% increase from N440,000.
Muoka emphasized that Starlink’s decision to unilaterally increase prices did not receive NCC approval. “The decision by Starlink to unilaterally review its subscription packages upwards did not receive the approval of the Nigerian Communications Commission,” he said. The commission was caught off guard by the price changes, as Starlink had filed a request for a price adjustment, which was still pending approval.
This sudden withdrawal of the statement has sparked reactions from Nigerians, with many expressing disappointment and frustration over the commission’s handling of the situation.
