Insecurity: No calls, internet as NCC asks telcos to suspend services in Zamfara

The Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) has instructed all telecommunications companies to shut down their services in Zamfara over lingering insecurity in the state.

Zamfara state has become a hot spot for banditry and kidnappings in recent times.

TheCable had reported that Bello Matawalle, governor of Zamfara, suspended the transportation of livestock beyond the state’s borders.

The governor also ordered the closure of weekly markets across the state, while transportation of food items will be subject to verification.

In a leaked memo to the managing director of one of the telecommunication companies, on Friday, Umar G. Danbatta, chief executive officer of NCC, gave the directives citing pervading insecurity.

Danbatta said the action is one of the activities required to address security challenges in the state.

“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 to carry out required activities towards addressing the security agencies carry out required activities towards addressing the security challenge in the state,” the statement reads.

“This site shutdown is for two (2) weeks (September 03-17,2021) in the first instance. Your urgent action in this regard is required.”

On Wednesday, Zamfara government shut down schools after abduction of 73 students from a public school in the state.

The abduction occurred 11 days after students abducted from the College of Agriculture in Bakura, Zamfara, regained freedom.