By Ishaya Ibrahim, News Editor
The Federal Government seems to be tightening the noose on the terrorists rampaging all over the North by pulling the technology rug from under their feet.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) on Friday directed all telecommunications operators to shut down their services across Zamfara State with effect from September 3, 2021.
The move, the Commission said, was to help the security agencies take actions that will help in addressing the security challenges in Zamfara State.
A letter signed by Prof. Umar G. Danbatta, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of NCC, and addressed to the Managing Directors/CEOs of all the telecoms operators said the shutdown would be reviewed after two weeks.
“The pervading security situation in Zamfara State has necessitated an immediate shut down of all telecommunications services in the state from today, September 03, 2021. This is to enable relevant security agencies carry out required activities towards addressing the security challenges in the state,” the letter read.
“In line with this requirement, … is hereby directed to shut down all sites in Zamfara State and any site(s) in neighbouring states that could provide telecommunication services in Zamfara State.
“The site shutdown is for two 2 weeks (September 03- 17, 2021) in the first instance. Your urgent action in this regard is required,” the letter concluded.
Many Nigerians are skeptical as to the efficacy of this measure and how far it can go in mitigating the insecurity crisis in Zamfara State, in particular, and the North, generally.
Attempt by Thenicheng.com to ascertain from the NCC the endgame has not yielded result.