Popular stand-up comedian, Otaghware Onodjayeke, known by his stage name Igosave, has called on authorities to investigate the operations of telecommunication companies in Nigeria over alleged exploitation of citizens through excessive data charges.
Igosave made the appeal following the recent tariff hike by major internet service providers in the country.
In a video shared on his social media platforms from the United Kingdom, the comedian compared internet services in both countries, noting that data in the UK is faster, more reliable, and lasts longer than in Nigeria.
“This is the third time I’ve gone to my service provider in the UK to top up my phone, and they turned me back because I still have data. I bought 20 gigabytes three weeks ago, and it’s still working, very fast,” he said.
He urged the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) to probe telecom operators, accusing them of short-changing Nigerians.
“Internet providers in Nigeria are ripping Nigerians off. 20 gigabytes lasts one month in the UK, while 50 gigabytes in Nigeria doesn’t last three days. What’s the reason? They need to be investigated because there’s no difference between them and internet fraudsters,” he said.
The comedian also questioned the affordability of data plans in Nigeria, especially with the current minimum wage, calling for urgent intervention by the government.
