Nigerian Suspect Sabotage as Internet Outage Hits States Amid Hunger Protests

Widespread internet outages in Nigeria have disrupted major operators following a nationwide hunger protest. Subscribers of different telecommunication companies have shown dissatisfaction with their inability to access many websites, especially social media like X (ex-Twitter) and Facebook. Many Nigerians suspect this is an intentional slowing down of the web by authorities to hinder the organizers from mobilizing through these platforms.

The internet blackout started on Wednesday night, 31 July 2024, with information pointing at having damaged fiber optic cable or external sabotage as possible causes. There has also been an extended loss of network experienced by 9Mobile customers which incapacitated their calling or browsing capabilities.

This new development comes hot on the heels of a significant change in the telecoms sector. LH Telecommunication Limited, a new investor has just bought 9Mobile, one of the country’s leading telecommunications firms. Nevertheless, this purchase coincided with its extensive time off air leaving numerous subscribers irritated during times of national instability.

The ongoing demonstrations are a response to the worsening economy and what is perceived as poor leadership by the government. The overthrown Nigerians have taken their message about bad governance and economic hardships to the street, whereby they urged the government to reintroduce petrol subsidy and stabilize exchange rate. Among other things, demonstrators have expressed their anger towards high cost of living as well as an increase in inflation level that has been reported at 34.19% according to National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) latest findings.

This combination of internet shut downs coupled with protests have created an edgy mood throughout Nigeria. Many people think that this blocking of networks was not accidental but instead a planned action meant to hinder communication among protestors before they could assemble together. The boycott of social networking sites has greatly affected those who are rallying for support thereby intensifying fears that someone is out there trying to frustrate their activities.

Nigerians are not happy with the ways things are going on and this is evident from their online and offline expressions. The protests and internet problems show that the situation in Nigeria is getting worse with people demanding real changes from the government as well as economic assistance. The blackout of the internet during such moments of crucial social turmoil makes clear how much communication infrastructure matters to current uprisings and civil movements.

Typically, Nigerians have reason to suspect foul play besides being annoyed by these regular Internet outages during hunger strike. This also implies an increased call for improved governance and a stronger economy in Nigeria.