Telecom subscribers are sending emails and direct messages to the Nigerian Communications Commission and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, demanding an investigation into what they describe as unexplained data consumption.

Operators insist that there is no mechanism for reducing customers’ data, arguing instead that rising consumption is due to user behaviour, particularly the shift from 3G and 4G to 5G and increased video streaming habits.

The controversy comes as the Nigerian Senate, last Wednesday, urged the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy to engage operators on reviewing data and internet-related service costs.

While data consumption concerns have remained a pressing concern in recent times, the situation became more pronounced since the implementation of a 50 per cent tariff hike on data and call prices in February.

Over the weekend, some of these operators’ customer service teams engaged with frustrated customers on social media, offering data management tips.

However, many subscribers who shared screenshots of emails sent to regulators on social media and obtained by this reporter remained unconvinced, arguing that the problem lies in the operators’ billing systems rather than their usage habits.

Subscribers lamented that “Not only has data become more expensive, but it also seems to deplete faster than before. This is unacceptable,” another user complained.

The regulator’s spokesman did not respond to messages.

An executive at a major telecom company, who was not authorised to speak on the matter, said that as more users transition to 5G, data usage has naturally increased—just as it did when the industry moved from 2G to 3G and from 3G to 4G.

In July 2024, the NCC required telecom operators to simplify tariff plans, provide clear billing information, and conduct independent audits of their systems to address data depletion complaints. So far, none of the operators have been found wanting.Telcos are also arguing that data quantities are standardised globally, meaning that 1GB in Nigeria is the same as 1GB anywhere else in the world. The difference, they say, comes from how users consume their data.