The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has retracted its recent press statement regarding Starlink, a satellite internet service provider, admitting that the announcement was made in error. In a notice sent to media outlets on Tuesday, the NCC requested that editors and journalists remove any articles related to the statement.

“Please note that this press statement on Starlink was issued in error. It is hereby WITHDRAWN. If already published, kindly BRING DOWN,” stated the message from Kunle Azeez, the NCC’s Manager of Media Relations.

Previously, the NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, had outlined plans to take action against Starlink for increasing its subscription prices in Nigeria without the regulator’s consent.

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In its communication to customers last week, Starlink indicated that the price hike would impact both existing and new subscribers. The monthly fee saw a staggering increase of 97%, jumping from ₦38,000 to ₦75,000. Additionally, new users will now pay ₦590,000 for the necessary installation kit, marking a 34% increase from the prior cost of ₦440,000.

The NCC, however, clarified that it did not approve this price increase. “Starlink’s unilateral decision to adjust its subscription rates was made without the Nigerian Communications Commission’s authorization,” Muoka explained. He further expressed surprise at Starlink’s announcement, highlighting that the company had submitted a request for a price adjustment, which the NCC had yet to evaluate.