Nigeria: Social Media reacts to data hikes

With reports making the rounds about an increase in data tarrifs with effect from December 1, 2016, social media has been abuzz in Nigeria.

Acting on a directive given by the national regulator, a number of mobile operators, including MTN and Globacom have sent out text messages to their subscribers notifying them of upcoming tarrif hikes.

According to reports, the decision was taken by the Federal Government because Nigeria has one of the lowest data rates on the continent. Other reports claim that the increase in data rates is aimed at making the operating environment more competitive.

Many social media users have since been directing their frustrations at newly elected President, Muhammadu Buhari. Users on twitter had this to say:

https://twitter.com/AuntyOsaki/status/803677638997012480

Buhari increased fuel price and nothing happened
No 'occupy' because "our people dey power now"
What is Data that he can't increase?

— Ebube The Statesman (@akaebube) November 29, 2016

https://twitter.com/BadmanSophss/status/803375215124377600

Data price increase: Buhari trying to reduce criticism of his government – Social media users… https://t.co/orqUslphhe

— gia (@nottinbutaig) November 30, 2016

On the first day of Christmas Buhari sent to me:
An increase in Data tariff…

— Mike Asukwo (@Asukwoeb) November 30, 2016

When I said we haven't hit rock bottom yet with Buhari, you thought it was just yarns…soon you won't have data to disturb my mentions. 😂

— Ms Boateng (@JoyceOdukoya) November 29, 2016

https://twitter.com/iam_tomilade/status/803728893223915520

Just when people started dancing that data will soon be very cheap, buhari happened.

— Eshin Monaco⚡️ (@5nBOI) November 29, 2016

https://twitter.com/BillionTwiTs/status/803702073984503808

https://twitter.com/MusicGeneralNG/status/803521389462507520

Staff Writer