SERAP sues FG over 50 percent telecom tariff hike

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against the Federal Government and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) over the recent 50 percent hike in telecom tariffs.

The new rates increase call costs to₦16.5 per minute (from₦11), data to₦431.25 per GB (from₦287.5), and SMS charges to₦6 (from₦4). SERAP argues the increase is “arbitrary, unconstitutional, unlawful, and unfair,” citing its adverse impact on Nigerians’ rights to free expression and access to information.

SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, noted that the tariff hike is a violation of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2018, the Nigerian Constitution, and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, which guarantee equal access to communication services.

Court reliefs sought

Filed under suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/111/2025 at the Federal High Court, Abuja, SERAP is asking the court to declare the tariff hike unconstitutional and a violation of fundamental rights, nullify the NCC’s approval of the increase, restrain the NCC and telecom companies from enforcing the hike, and grant any further orders necessary to uphold citizens’ rights.

Economic challenges, procedural violations

SERAP highlighted Nigeria’s worsening economic conditions, including high poverty levels affecting 133 million citizens, inflation, and the removal of fuel subsidies.

The organisation claims the tariff hike disproportionately burdens vulnerable Nigerians and was implemented without consultation with key stakeholders, violating the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act.

Hearing awaited

No date has been set for the hearing of the suit and interim application. SERAP maintains that the tariff hike undermines equitable access to essential communication services.

FRCN