Lagos-based lawyer, Olukoya Ogungbeje, has taken legal action by filing a N10 billion lawsuit against the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and other entities. The lawsuit alleges that the blocking of phone lines not linked to the National Identification Number (NIN) has resulted in inconvenience, loss of business opportunities, and the violation of citizens’ fundamental rights.
Despite a court order issued on February 22, 2024, restraining actions such as barring, deactivating, or restricting phone lines/SIMs, the NCC directed telecom operators to enforce the linkage of SIM cards to NIN by February 28, 2024. Ogungbeje argues that the NCC’s actions are wrongful, illegal, undemocratic, and unconstitutional, particularly considering the existing court order.
In the filed suit (FHC/L/CS/363/2024), Ogungbeje not only seeks redress for himself but also demands a public apology from the respondents, including the NCC, its Executive Vice Chairman, and major telecommunications companies such as MTN Nigeria Communications Plc, Airtel Networks Nigeria, Globacom Limited, and Emerging Markets Telecommunication Services Ltd (9Mobile).
Ogungbeje contends that the NCC’s directive, and subsequent actions by the telecom operators, have caused significant harm to his legal practice and business. He emphasizes the disregard for the court order and the adverse effects on affected Nigerian citizens, seeking an order to set aside the directive, activate barred phone lines, and award N10 billion in damages.
In response, the NCC asserts that it has not been officially served with the new suit. The Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Mouka, maintains that the NCC will defend its directive, highlighting the national security aspect of the National Identity Management Commission policy on SIM linkage. He emphasizes that telecom operators are legally bound by this directive, framing it as a matter of national security and adherence to government policy.
