14-day Mobile Phone Blackout In Zamfara, NCC Says Why

NIGERIAN Communications Commission (NCC) has said it ordered an immediate shutdown of all telecommunications services in Zamfara State because of insecurity.

NCC had on Friday September 3, 2021 ordered shutdown of telecommunication services in Zamfara State for two weeks.

Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, NCC, Prof. Umar Danbatta said in a statement that the decision was to enable security agencies tackle rising security crisis in the state, and it became imperative that an immediate shutdown of all telecommunications services be done in the state.

Danbatta said, “This is to enable relevant security agencies to carry out the required activities towards addressing the security challenge in the state.”

He added that telecommunication companies are by that order “directed to shut down all sites in Zamfara State and any sites(s) in neighbouring states that could provide telecommunications services in Zamfara State.

“The site shut down is for two weeks from September 3 to September 17, 2021, in the first instance. Your urgent action in this regard is required.”

Some reports have indicated that the action was in response to a request from Zamfara state government to halt communication and address the security situation.

Zamfara has been reeling under the heavy weight of banditry which has in recent time been on the increase. There is incessant and widespread kidnapping of people by bandits in the state. Recently about 60 people were reportedly kidnapped.

In a bid to put an end to the rising security situation, President, Muhammadu Buhari, had Six months ago (in March) declared Zamfara State a no-fly zone.

Hundreds of people have been killed or kidnapped, including schoolchildren, in the past year by armed men in the state.