NCC Approves Partial Disconnection of Glo Subscribers over Interconnect Debt

•Industry source says outstanding debt already paid

Emma Okonji

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) yesterday, gave approval to MTN to disconnect all Glo subscribers from its network with effect from January 18, 2024.

According to the NCC, MTN would partially disconnect all Glo subscribers and restrict them from making calls to MTN network, but they can receive in-coming calls generated from the MTN network, with effect from January 18, 2024.

The NCC which gave the order in a statement signed by its Director of Public Affairs, Mr. Reuben Muoka, said the decision became necessary, following the refusal of Globacom to pay interconnection fees owed to MTN.

Although the NCC did not disclose the amount owed by Globacom, it however said it had investigated the matter and decided that Glo subscribers be partially disconnected after 10 days from yesterday.

The statement explained: “The Commission hereby notify the public and subscribers of Globacom that approval has been granted for the partial disconnection of Globacom from MTN Nigeria, due to non-settlement of interconnect charges.

“Globacom was notified of the application made by MTN and was given opportunity to comment and state its case. NCC, having examined the application and circumstances surrounding the indebtedness, determined that Globacom does not have sufficient or justifiable reasons for non-payment of the interconnect charges.

“All subscribers are therefore requested to take note that NCC has approved the partial disconnection of Globacom to MTN in accordance with Section 100 of the Nigerian Communications Commission Act 2003 and Paragraph 9 of the Guidelines on Procedure for Granting Approval to Disconnect Telecommunications Operators 2012.

“At the expiration of 10 days from the date of the notice, subscribers of Globacom will no longer be able to make calls to MTN, but will be able to receive calls. The partial disconnection, however will allow in-bound calls to Globacom network. The disconnection will subsist until otherwise determined by the NCC,” the statement added.

Meanwhile, industry sources disclosed that what was due for payment was N1.6 billion, and that the amount had been paid without any controversy.

“It is either the act is deliberate or gross ineptitude on the part of the detractors, who find it difficult to do ordinary cross checking of facts. Glo does not owe MTN, not anybody,” the source said.