Ericsson Nigeria has audited all mast sites in Enugu and Port Harcourt regions, in order to prevent future illegal transmitter installation for unlicensed radio stations.
Pirate station, Radio Biafra had made use of an MTN mast, managed by Ericsson Nigeria, to transmit messages to proponents and apologists of Biafra.
David Nwawuisi, who worked as a contract staff with Ericsson Nigeria, revealed to the Department of State Services, that he was paid an initial sum of N150,000 to install a Radio Biafra transmitter on an MTN mast in Ngwo, Enugu state.
Nwawuisi, a telecommunication maintenance engineer, is currently on trial alongside Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra.
In a statement signed by the Managing Director, Ericsson Nigeria, Johan Jemdahl, and made available to YNaija, the company said it took the decision to audit the mast sites after Nwawuisi carried out the illegal act.
“Illegal FM transmitting equipment was discovered connected to an outsourced MTN mast, managed by Ericsson, in Enugu in eastern Nigeria. The equipment was immediately confiscated and the authorities were notified.
“A contractor to Ericsson has subsequently been taken into police custody after his involvement was discovered. He has been discharged from his contracted responsibilities with Ericsson.”
“Ericsson views this incident in an extremely serious light. It is the result of a violation of its process that permits access to its mast sites. As a result, Ericsson has initiated immediate action to foil any similar attempts.”
“All mast sites in Enugu and Port Harcourt Regions have been audited while FM scanning was conducted. Critical attention was given to all high masts and sites located in mountainous areas, i.e. locations attractive for illegal activities. In addition, the Site Access Process will be reviewed for all employees and third parties.”
“We sincerely regret the unfortunate incident, which violates our Code of Business Ethics and Code of Conduct, contracted responsibilities as well as our company values.”
