Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has shut down telecom provider Owntel Communications. The shutdown is due to the company allegedly offering telecommunications services to customers, without obtaining operational licence.
NCC enforcement team, led by Mr. Salisu Abdul, head of Enforcement, visited the office of Owntel on Isheri Road in Ojodu, Lagos, where it confiscated some of its equipment as evidence for illegal operation.
According to nigeriacommunicationsweek.com.ng, Owntel is offering telecommunications services on vehicle tracking, as well as sales and installation of fixed and mobile telecommunication terminals, without operational licence, which NCC described as an offense amounting to defrauding of the Federal Government.
According to media statement made by Abdul, “Owntel is providing telecommunication services, especially vehicle tracking services, which involve network and data services that require licence, yet it is operating without any licence.”
Abdul stated that the company was duly monitored for some months before taking the decision to clamp down on it.
Abdul advised customers to be careful in dealing with telecoms service providers, and always insist that the registration and licence number of any telecoms operator be printed on the receipt they issue to customers, as directed by the NCC.
Source: http://www.itnewsafrica.com/2014/11/nigeria-ncc-shuts-down-illegal-telecom-firm/
