Sokoto Lawmakers Summon GSM Providers, Demand End to Poor Network
By Fahad Faruk Galadanchi
The Sokoto State House of Assembly has summoned GSM and internet service providers over the persistent poor quality of telecommunications services across the state.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Hon. Aminu Gidado APC, Sokoto South II and seconded by Hon. Shamsu Aliyu APC, Wurno, who raised concerns over deteriorating network coverage, frequent call drops, delayed text messages, and prolonged internet disruptions.
Moving the motion during Wednesday’s plenary, Gidado said reliable telecommunications had become indispensable for communication, business, education, healthcare, banking, security, governance, and emergency response, warning that the current situation was causing widespread hardship.
He noted that residents in several parts of Sokoto often experience network outages lasting for hours and, in some cases, an entire day, leaving them unable to communicate or access essential services.
According to him, the poor service has adversely affected businesses, students, civil servants, healthcare providers, security agencies, and financial institutions, resulting in economic losses despite subscribers continuing to pay for voice and data services.
After deliberations by members, Speaker Alhaji Tukur Bala put the motion to a voice vote, where it received unanimous support.
The Assembly directed its relevant committee to invite GSM operators and telecommunications regulatory agencies to explain the causes of the recurring network failures and outline concrete measures to address the problem.
Lawmakers also called on the Sokoto State Government to collaborate with relevant federal agencies and telecom operators to improve network infrastructure and ensure reliable GSM and internet services across the state.
