NCC set to sanction illegal spectrum users
Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has ordered telecoms companies illegally using certain spectrum to desist from doing so, with a 14-day ultimatum to quit such spectrum or face severe sanction.
The Commission disclosed that the use of any spectrum not duly licensed by any operator is criminal and could lead to imprisonment.
Prof. Umar Danbatta, executive vice chairman of the NCC, particularly warned all unauthorized users of 5.470-5.725 gigahertz (GHz) spectrum band to desist from doing so in order not to incur the wrath of the Commission.
“The Nigerian Communications Commission hereby informs the general public that the 5.4GHz band spanning 5.470 – 5.725 GHz frequency range is a licensed band in Nigeria,” Danbatta said.
He explained that transmission of signals or use of equipment in any form on the band without a frequency license obtained from the NCC is illegal and shall not be tolerated.
He remained all concerned operators and companies or any person(s) using the band to note that it was a criminal offence pursuant to the section 122 of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA), 2003 to operate on any frequency not duly assigned by the Commission.
