Soludo cracks down on illegal ISPs to curb infrastructure degradation

The Anambra State Government has started cracking down on unauthorised internet service providers (ISPs) in the state, in a move to curb infrastructure and environmental degradation in the state. This was disclosed by the Anambra State Physical Planning Board (ANSPPB) and the Anambra State ICT Agency, the two organs responsible for the crackdown.

According to the government, the action became necessary following numerous reports of illegal road and sidewalk excavations, as well as the unauthorised erection of poles defacing our environment.

Speaking about the development, the Executive Chairman/Managing Director of ANSPPB, Barrister Chike Maduekwe, advised the illegal operators to play by the rules and go about their businesses in the proper manner.

“This isn’t about shutting anyone out. It’s about ensuring everyone plays by the rules. If you want to offer internet services in Anambra, go through the proper channels. We will support those doing the right thing, but we will not fold our arms and watch people cut corners.” Barrister Maduekwe said.

Anambra’s crackdown amid drive to position itself as ICT hub

This development is coming amid a drive by the state government to position Anambra as the ICT hub of the southeast. In 2023, the Anambra State government commenced the implementation of zero charges on Right-of-Way per linear meter. By implication, Anambra became the first State in the Southeastern region of Nigeria to implement the waiver of the per linear metre Right of Way (RoW) charges as opposed to the N145 per linear metre recommended by the National Economic Council (NEC) in 2020.

See also: Governor Soludo implements zero right of way to drive broadband penetration in Anambra

This buttresses the state’s willingness to open its doors for digital advancements. However, investigations have since revealed that several ISPs have been operating without the required submission of deployment plans and approvals. These illegal operations pose serious risks, including data breaches, poor service quality, and the defacement of public infrastructure.

Left unchecked, such activities not only compromise residents’ safety but also undermine legitimate ISPs who are registered with the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) and are prepared to follow due process to provide reliable services.

The state said the objective of this crackdown is to sanitise the state’s digital landscape by ensuring that only properly registered and certified ISPs are allowed to operate in the State. This, in turn, is part of the broader vision of the Soludo-led administration to promote responsible technology use for the collective good.

Lending his thoughts on the development, the Managing Director/CEO of the Anambra State ICT Agency, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata (CFA), noted that while the zero right of way is meant to encourage players, it should not be open to abuse.

“The Internet is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity. Mr Governor announced and implemented zero right-of-way policy as a way of encouraging more players and deepening access, however, it is important to state that the first point of call for any interested player is the relevant agencies, so that the State is aware of what is being deployed,” he said.

He further noted that this is important because the people of Anambra deserve services from providers they can trust. Thus, the government remains committed to protecting the citizens while enabling fair competition in the tech ecosystem.

He also stated that the Anambra State Government remains resolute in fostering a safe, fair, and well-regulated digital economy, one where residents can enjoy reliable internet services without fear of exploitation or compromise.