SaharaReporters earlier reported that thousands of Nigerians woke up on Sunday to find their SIM cards barred by MTN, sparking widespread outrage.
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) South-West has demanded immediate action from MTN and other telecommunications service providers regarding the recent barring of SIM cards, which has led to significant unrest among affected citizens in the Nigeria..
SaharaReporters earlier reported that thousands of Nigerians woke up on Sunday to find their SIM cards barred by MTN, sparking widespread outrage.
The telecommunications giant claimed that the affected subscribers had failed to link their National Identification Number (NIN) with their SIM cards.
In response, scores of disgruntled subscribers stormed MTN offices in major cities, including Osogbo in Osun State; Ikeja, and Festac town in Lagos State; Uyo in Akwa Ibom State and Warri in Delta State.
Viral videos online show protesters venting their frustration and anger over the sudden disconnection. The protests highlight the frustration and disruption caused by the mass disconnection, with many subscribers demanding a resolution to the issue."
However, NANS Southwest in a statement jointly signed by Alao John , Coordinator; Comrade Sanni Sulaimon Olamide, Secretary General and Comrade Bamigboye Peter Oluwadamilola (Dammygold); Public Relations Officer called for the Nigerian government intervention
The association said it was aware that the current atmosphere in the country was charged, with various groups already planning protests over different grievances, adding that the additional frustration caused by the SIM card issue could serve as a catalyst for broader unrest.
"The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Southwest is hereby issuing a stern warning to MTN and other telecommunications service providers regarding the recent barring of SIM cards, which has led to significant unrest among affected citizens.
"This action has caused a considerable number of individuals to congregate at various MTN offices across the country in a bid to rectify the issues with their SIM cards. Such gatherings, in the current socio-political climate, could escalate into larger demonstrations or unrest, especially with the backdrop of planned nationwide protests.
"The SIM barring issue has emerged as a critical concern, as it affects not only individual connectivity but also access to essential services, business operations, and communication channels for a large segment of the population.
"Many Nigerians rely heavily on mobile networks for daily activities, including banking, emergency services, and staying connected with loved ones. The sudden inability to access these services due to blocked SIM cards has understandably led to frustration and anxiety among users.
"NANS Southwest, representing the interests of students and young people across the region, is particularly concerned about the potential for this situation to exacerbate existing tensions. The organization is aware that the current atmosphere in the country is charged, with various groups already planning protests over different grievances. The additional frustration caused by the SIM card issue could serve as a catalyst for broader unrest.
"In light of these concerns, NANS Southwest is calling on the management of MTN and other telecom service providers to urgently address this issue. The organization suggests that these companies explore alternative methods for resolving SIM card barring issues that do not require physical presence at service centers.
"Specifically, NANS Southwest recommends the establishment of online platforms or websites dedicated to handling such issues. By providing a digital solution, service providers can significantly reduce the need for people to gather at physical locations, thereby minimizing the risk of large crowds forming and potential unrest.
"Furthermore, NANS Southwest emphasizes that resolving this issue promptly is in the best interest of both the telecommunications companies and the Nigerian public. A proactive approach in addressing customer concerns will not only restore the affected individuals' ability to access essential services but also demonstrate the companies' commitment to customer satisfaction and public safety. It will also help prevent any negative repercussions that could arise from prolonged customer dissatisfaction.
"In conclusion, the National Association of Nigerian Students Southwest urges MTN and other service providers to act swiftly in addressing the blocked SIM card issue. The organization believes that a timely and efficient response, including the implementation of online solutions, will alleviate the current tensions and prevent further escalation.
"NANS Southwest remains committed to advocating for the interests of students and the broader public, and it calls on all stakeholders to work together to ensure a peaceful and constructive resolution to this situation," the statement added.