You will recall that in 2016 the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) issued a directive to all Nigerian telecom operators in the country to start implementation of the ‘Do-not-Disturb’ (DND) code. This was with respect to the alarming increase in unsolicited calls and text messages received by users from telecoms providers.
But as the general election approaches, government and regulators are seeking proactive ways to ensure that people actively participate in it.
Having considered the importance of conveying election information to the electorates during the election period, NCC has now temporarily suspended its previous directive to telecom operators regarding Do Not Disturb (DND) Codes.
According to the NCC, implementing the Do Not Disturb suspension will enable service providers to disseminate specific information on voter education on behalf of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
It, however, warned MNOs to be mindful of existing directives regarding the timing and regularity of such messages and the fact that the temporary suspension is only with regards to the specific messages on voters’ education.
The NCC has expressed readiness to strictly monitor the activities of the MNOs for the duration of the temporary suspension.
