By Chinenye Anuforo
Amid growing anger from Nigerian bank customers over repeated charges on failed USSD transactions, the Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria, Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, has insisted that telecommunications operators are not responsible for the controversial deductions.
Speaking during a radio programme hosted by Jimi Disu, Adebayo addressed widespread complaints over the N6.98 USSD charge, particularly in cases where banking transactions fail to go through.
According to him, telecom operators only provide the connection that enables customers access their banks’ digital platforms, stressing that the service is rendered regardless of the transaction outcome.
Using an analogy, he said: “The phone company is like a taxi taking you to the bank’s digital office. Even if the bank’s system is down when you arrive, you still have to pay the taxi man.”
The explanation comes as millions of Nigerians continue to question why they are billed for unsuccessful transactions, describing the charges as exploitative in a fragile economic climate.
Adebayo, however, maintained that each USSD attempt consumes network resources, noting that telecom infrastructure is engaged every time a customer dials a code successful or not.
He further disclosed that the Nigerian Communications Commission and the Central Bank of Nigeria are currently reviewing industry data to determine responsibility for failed transactions between banks and telecom operators.
On the equally contentious issue of data expiration, the ALTON chairman dismissed claims of exploitation, explaining that data bundles are sold within defined validity periods and are not meant to last indefinitely.
“You can’t carry data in perpetuity,” he said, adding that subscribers can retain unused data through rollover provided they renew their subscriptions before expiry.
He also clarified misconceptions around toll-free services, noting that such lines are not truly free but are funded by organisations that choose to bear the cost on behalf of callers. According to him, economic pressures have reduced the number of businesses willing to sustain such services.
While acknowledging public frustration, Adebayo called for greater understanding of the technical and operational realities of the telecom sector. He argued that regulatory fines alone cannot resolve service challenges, pointing instead to persistent issues such as power shortages and infrastructure vandalism.
He urged stakeholders and consumers alike to support efforts to protect telecom infrastructure, warning that sustainable service delivery depends not only on regulation but also on shared responsibility.
The debate over USSD charges continues to intensify, with many Nigerians awaiting clear directives from regulators on who should ultimately bear the cost of failed digital banking transactions.
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