Reps Threaten Arrest of Telecom CEOs Over Poor Network

The House of Representatives has threatened to issue arrest warrants against chief executives of telecommunications companies who fail to honour its invitation to explain persistent poor network services across Nigeria.

The warning followed concerns raised by lawmakers over dropped calls, slow internet connections, failed data transactions and inadequate network coverage affecting individuals, businesses and communities.

The House committee investigating the quality of telecommunications services insisted that the companies’ chief executives must appear personally rather than send representatives to answer questions on their behalf.

The lawmakers maintained that individual operators must take responsibility for the quality of services provided to subscribers, despite their membership of industry associations.

The investigation is expected to examine the causes of recurring network failures, the adequacy of infrastructure investment and the steps being taken by operators to improve service reliability.

Telecommunications services remain essential to Nigeria’s economy, supporting banking transactions, digital businesses, education, public communication and emergency response. Poor connectivity can disrupt these activities, particularly in areas where network coverage is limited or unreliable.

Lawmakers also expressed concern about communities experiencing weak signals and connectivity gaps, warning that inadequate coverage could prevent residents from contacting emergency services and security agencies when necessary.

The committee has directed the affected telecommunications executives to appear and explain the measures their companies are implementing to address subscribers’ complaints.

The Nigerian Communications Commission is also expected to support efforts to ensure compliance with the legislative invitation.

The House’s position signals growing pressure on telecommunications operators to improve service delivery and demonstrate accountability to consumers and regulators.

The outcome of the investigation could inform further legislative or regulatory action aimed at addressing persistent network problems and improving the quality of telecommunications services nationwide.