The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has initiated pre-enforcement action against Starlink, a satellite internet service provider owned by Elon Musk, following the company’s recent decision to increase its subscription prices without the regulator’s approval.
Reuben Muoka, Director of Public Affairs at NCC, in a statement released on Tuesday, said the action commenced on October 3, 2024, just two days after Starlink implemented the unapproved price hike.
Muoka explained that the company’s unilateral decision to revise its subscription packages violates the provisions of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, specifically Sections 108 and 111, as well as the company’s license conditions regarding tariff adjustments.
“The decision by Starlink to unilaterally review their subscription packages upwards did not receive the approval of the Nigerian Communications Commission,” Muoka stated.
He added, “The action of the company is in contravention of Sections 108 and 111 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, and Starlink’s License Conditions regarding tariffs. The Commission commenced pre-enforcement action on the licensee on the 3rd of October, 2024.”
The regulatory body expressed its surprise at the price changes, saying that Starlink had previously submitted a request for a price adjustment, but a decision had not yet been communicated by the NCC when the satellite company went ahead with the increase.
