9mobile Accused of Blocking Subscribers from Switching Operators

Telecommunications provider 9mobile has come under fire following allegations that it is preventing subscribers from porting to other networks under the Mobile Number Portability (MNP) scheme. Several customers have reported difficulties in switching operators, claiming that their requests to move to rival networks are being deliberately blocked.

The allegations have sparked outrage among affected users, many of whom have expressed frustration over prolonged delays, failed porting attempts, and lack of response from 9mobile’s customer service. Some subscribers accuse the telecom company of intentionally making the process difficult to retain customers amid increasing competition in the industry.

Under the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) guidelines, mobile operators are required to facilitate seamless number portability, allowing users to switch providers while retaining their phone numbers. Any attempt to hinder this process is considered a violation of regulatory rules.

The NCC has yet to issue an official statement on the matter, but industry analysts suggest that if the claims are substantiated, 9mobile could face regulatory sanctions. Meanwhile, subscribers are calling on authorities to intervene and ensure that their rights to switch operators without unnecessary obstacles are upheld.

With stiff competition in Nigeria’s telecom sector, network providers are under pressure to retain subscribers. However, experts argue that the best approach is to improve service quality rather than restricting users’ ability to explore better alternatives.