Enugu Students Decry Telecom Tariff Hike, Demand Immediate Reversal
By CHUKWUMA OFILLI
A cross-section of students in Enugu State has voiced strong opposition to the recent 50% hike in telecommunication tariffs, appealing for an urgent reversal to ease the socioeconomic burdens on Nigerians.
The students emphasized that telecommunication services, particularly internet data, have become essential tools for learning, research, and communication. They warned that the increase would severely impact their education and daily lives.
Students Call for Empathy
Divine Eze, a student of Environmental Management at the University of Nigeria Enugu Campus (UNEC), urged the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and telecom companies to reconsider their decision.
He highlighted the financial struggles of students and their families, stating:
“Most students already find it hard to afford textbooks and other educational materials. Internet services were the only relief we had, helping us reduce costs for research and communication.”
Similarly, Chiamaka Dike, a Banking and Finance student at the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), noted that many students operate on tight budgets.
“The N2,000 I get monthly from my parents barely covers my data needs. This increase will only make things worse for students,” she said.
E-Work and Social Impact
Chidiebere Chimdobe from Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) criticized the lack of stakeholder consultation, pointing out that the hike could affect students who depend on soft jobs or e-jobs for income.
“This insensitivity to the hardships faced by Nigerian youths will only compound social issues and increase vices,” he added.
Progressive Students Movement Issues Ultimatum
The Progressive Students Movement (PSM), a pan-African student organization, has issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the NCC and telecom operators to reverse the tariff hike.
PSM President Bestman Okereafor described the increment as “unjustifiable, untimely, and insensitive.”
“This 50% hike comes at the detriment of Nigerians and disregards the economic realities they face,” Okereafor said, warning of nationwide protests if the decision is not reversed.
Tariff Hike Sparks Widespread Backlash
The NCC had earlier approved the 50% tariff increase, citing rising operational costs. However, students and advocacy groups argue that this move undermines access to essential services and threatens their education.
The students and PSM have called on the NCC and telecom operators to prioritize the needs of Nigerians and reverse the hike immediately to avoid further socioeconomic distress.
