- The Nigerian Communications Commission has clarified its position on sanctions against Starlink, admitting it was made in error
- Starlink recently increased its subscription fees from N38,000 to N75,000, with installation kits increasing by 34%
- The Nigerian Communications Commission further requested media organisations to withdraw its recently circulated press statement regarding the sanctions
Following the announcement to sanction Elon Musk's Starlink for increasing tariffs without approval, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) clarified that the statement regarding the punishment was issued in error.
At the same time, the NCC has requested that media organisations withdraw its recently circulated press statement about Starlink’s satellite internet services.
NCC clarifies press release was issued in error
“Kindly note that this press statement on Starlink was issued in error. It is hereby WITHDRAWN. If already published, kindly BRING DOWN,” stated Kunle Azeez, the NCC’s Manager of Media Relations on Tuesday, October 8.
The clarification that the press release had been a mistake was conveyed in a short message to media organisations on the same day.
The NCC admitted to releasing the statement regarding plans to penalise Starlink but clarified it was done in error, requesting editors and journalists to withdraw any related stories.
Starlink announces price hike affecting new and existing subscribers
Recall that Starlink recently notified its customers of a substantial price hike, stating that the changes would impact both new and existing subscribers. The monthly fee nearly doubled, rising from N38,000 to N75,000. The cost of the installation kit also saw a 34% surge, now priced at N590,000, up from N440,000.
Consequently, the commission's spokesperson, Reuben Muoka, announced on Tuesday, October 8 that enforcement steps were being planned against Starlink after it increased subscription prices in Nigeria without the required regulatory approval.
NCC plans enforcement steps against unauthorised price increase
He said, “The decision by Starlink to unilaterally review its subscription packages upwards did not receive the approval of the Nigerian Communications Commission.
“The action of the company appears to be a contravention of Sections 108 and 111 of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003, and Starlink’s Licence Conditions regarding tariffs.
“The commission will, therefore, take appropriate enforcement measures against any action by a licensee that is capable of eroding the regulatory stability of the telecommunications industry.”
Timeline of DStv, GOtv price increments in Nigeria
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that DSTV prices in Nigeria had been increased numerous times by Multichoice over the years.
The Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal had fined Multichoice Nigeria N150 million and mandated a free one-month subscription for Nigerians on DStv and GOtv for inadequate notice on price increments.