Reps investigate Internet Service Providers for extorting consumers

In response to allegations that private Internet service providers (ISPs) extort customers, the House of Representatives has opened an investigation into these practices.

The House’s decision came about as a result of Leke Abejide’s motion being adopted at Thursday’s plenary session.

In reversing the motion, the lawmaker claimed that many ISPs have avoided responsibility for their pervasive incompetence and weak and subpar service delivery, and that customers are forced to continuously pay for subpar services because there don’t seem to be any rules governing their pricing and service delivery, which allows them to take advantage of Nigerians.

According to him, the exploitative behaviors and inefficiencies of ISPs have a significant impact on Nigerian society, impeding development and adversely affecting commercial and economic endeavors.

The congressman stated that the government could provide a just and inclusive digital environment that empowers people, boosts the economy, and encourages social

He continued by saying that a lot of people deal with problems like inconsistent connectivity, sluggish speeds, and frequent service outages on a regular basis since, in the digital era, having a reliable Internet connection is essential, not optional.

Abejide pointed out that despite being aware of frequent service interruptions, Abuja-based ISP Legend charges a fixed monthly prepaid premium to its customers.

For instance, this company offers a range of tariff rates, the greatest of which is almost $483, 000 per month, but it hardly ever provides continuous service for even half of the month, he said.

“Worried that Legend ISP intentionally offers dependable internet service just a few days before monthly billing, tricking clients into thinking they are getting a good deal on a subscription renewal before quickly returning to its consistently subpar service levels, presenting an unethical business model of abusing customers that needs to be reported to authorities.”

Consequently, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and other pertinent institutions were urged by the House to create a framework for consumer protection that would automatically provide compensation or refunds in the event of extended service outages or notable departures from service levels that were advertised.

Additionally, it recommended the NCC to implement a “Pay-As-You-Go” policy for all ISPs in order to reduce the high incidence of service provider exploitation.