Nigerian Man Outraged as Neighbor Knocks to Demand Starlink Internet Password
A Nigerian man utilizing Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet service has publicly voiced his frustration on social media after a neighbor approached his home to request the password for his connection. The incident, which unfolded recently, has sparked discussions about privacy and the costs associated with high-speed internet access in Nigeria.
Unexpected Request Leads to Social Media Outcry
The individual, who shared his experience online under the handle @gvofeyii, explained that he was taken aback when a female neighbor confidently knocked on his door and asked for the password to his Starlink network. He emphasized that this occurred despite the service being his personal property, for which he pays a significant monthly fee. In his post, he stated, "Found out my neighbors have been using my Starlink. It wasn’t working today & this girl had the guts to knock on my door and ask me for the password. I’m so amused."
He further revealed that he had initially set a password on his Starlink router but was unaware of how his neighbors gained access. Upon discovering the unauthorized use, he promptly reset the router and changed the password to secure his connection.
High Monthly Costs and Financial Concerns
Highlighting the financial burden of the service, the man disclosed that he pays over N92,000 every month for his Starlink subscription. He expressed clear dissatisfaction with others tapping into his internet without permission, noting, "Of course it’s an issue if someone is tapping into it without my permission. If it was consensual or agreed upon, totally a different case." He also mentioned his anticipation for a more affordable N57,000 plan to become available again, describing the current pricing as "insane."
Social Media Reactions and Community Perspectives
The post garnered numerous reactions from other social media users, who shared their own experiences and opinions on the matter. @Iamdotify commented, "They have the notion of 'shebi it is unlimited and he can’t finish it', the boldness to come knocking is crazy and the fact that they probably figured the previous password from maybe things you say or things they feel you will use is even crazier."
Other users offered contrasting views, with @bigray0x stating, "I have 2TB monthly. Even if everyone in my compound uses it, I doubt it’ll be an issue, but of course you can always ask them to contribute to use it." Meanwhile, @Flaming1001 shared a different approach, saying, "I use the gen 3 and pay 57k monthly...but I do collect little stipend from my neighbours every month for subscription. am I a bad person ???"
Additional comments included @Ohlee_vah noting, "Starlink allows people connect, I was using my neighbors own till he woke up one day and changed the whole thing," and @Oleribeweb30 humorously adding, "Lmao she really knocked and asked for the password? thats next level balls. tell her subscription fees start at 99 a month."
Broader Context of Starlink Usage in Nigeria
This incident reflects a growing trend of Nigerians adopting Starlink for faster internet, despite its high costs. In a related report, a Nigerian man previously installed Starlink at a cost of N550,000, praising its rapid website loading speeds. Additionally, a Nigerian YouTuber, Fisayo Fosudo, conducted a test by connecting over 20 phones simultaneously to a Starlink connection, demonstrating its capacity, though he clarified it was not a formal scientific experiment.
The story underscores ongoing challenges with internet accessibility and affordability in Nigeria, as well as social dynamics surrounding shared resources in residential areas.
