In recent weeks, Nigeria has been rocked by widespread protests under the #EndBadGovernance movement, calling for an end to police brutality and government corruption. As the demonstrations gained momentum, reports of internet disruptions surfaced, leading to accusations of deliberate interference by the government. However, Nigerian telecom providers have come forward to clarify that the network outages were caused by hoodlums damaging internet cables, rather than government intervention.
Gbolahan Awonuga, executive secretary of ALTON, emphasized that the cable cuts were a result of protesters tampering with the infrastructure, leading to widespread network disruptions. He stated, “The network disruption is not a matter of the government trying to sabotage the protest. It is as a result of the cable cut.” Awonuga also assured the public that efforts are being made to repair the damage and restore connectivity, urging patience during this process.
Despite these explanations, skepticism remains among the Nigerian public. Many have pointed out that network issues were prevalent even before the protests began, casting doubt on the telecom operators‘ claims. Some social media users expressed disbelief, questioning the honesty of the providers and suggesting that the disruptions were intentional rather than accidental.
The ongoing controversy highlights the deep-seated mistrust between the Nigerian public and authorities, especially during times of civil unrest. The internet has played a crucial role in amplifying the voices of protesters and sharing information with the world, making any disruptions a cause for concern. As the protests continue and tensions escalate, the need for transparent communication and accountability from all parties involved becomes increasingly important.
In a country where freedom of expression is essential for democracy to thrive, any attempts to suppress communication channels are met with resistance and suspicion. The #EndBadGovernance protests have brought to light the power of social media and technology in mobilizing citizens and holding those in power accountable. As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for all stakeholders to prioritize transparency and uphold the right to access information without interference.