Until yesterday, telecoms subscribers were preparing to adjust to higher tariffs following a directive by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) asking operators to increase the cost of some of their services, particularly data.

In on example, MTN sent a message to subscribers saying it would be increasing some of its data tariffs in line with the NCC's directives.

This was met with widespread condemnation by citizens and interest groups, including the Association of Telecoms Subscribers (NATCOMS) which described the increment as insensitive, callous, and diabolical.

Reacting to developments, the Nigerian Senate directed the Commission and operators to suspend the tariff adjustment claiming this was decided without notifying and engaging subscribers and other stakeholders.

According to the President of the Nigerian Senate, Bukola Saraki, the hike is four times higher than what subscribers are currently paying.

"Senators in all totality condemned the increase of data Tariffs by the service providers in tandem with NCC. At this time without any consultation from the statistics it is almost four times the price. Senate now resolves to halt the new tariff approval," Saraki tweeted.

According to the lawmakers, the tariff hike represents the 'height of irresponsibility' and asked its committee on communication to conduct an investigation and ensure that the rights and interests of subscribers are protected.

The NCC has since suspended the policy which it said was a new minimum pricing template for data services by telecoms operators in Nigeria. The Commission's Director of Public Affairs, Tony Ojobo, said the regulator decided to suspend the action to allow for diligent consultation with industry interest groups.

He said: "Following concerns that visited the directive to introduce price floor for data segment of the telecommunications sector beginning from December 1, 2016, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has suspended any further action in that direction. The decision to suspend this directive was taken after due consultation with industry stakeholders and the general complaints by consumers across the country."

He also asked operators to maintain the status quo until the commission is able to determine retail prices for broadband and data services in Nigeria.