Nigerian fiery activist and politician, Omoyele Sowore, has ignited a firestorm of reactions after publicly criticising MTN Comminications Nigeria Limited over its data services, and poor network.
In a Facebook post that has generated strong traction online, Sowore described the telecom giant as “the biggest data thief,” accusing the company of exploiting Nigerians through its data pricing and usage structure.
Sowore wrote on his Facebook page “Yes, MTN Nigeria is engaging in what can only be described as daylight robbery against subscribers in Nigeria. It represents one of the worst forms of exploitative, scorched-earth business practices. MTN Is Data Thief! #AACOURPARTY”
Sowore’s acerbic indictment of MTN Nigeria, has sparked a heated conversation about data usage, pricing, and transparency, and heightened discussion around the telecom giant’s data policy which many who spoke to NATIONAL WAVES not only condemned as exploitative, but strongly supported Sowore’s position.
A man who identified as Desmond described MTN as ” modern day imperialist exploiting Nigerians working around the country’s weak policies and corruption in high places to punish innocent Nigerians”.
Sowore further noted that it was time for action, a comment that has since triggered widespread debate.
He further wrote “When it rains, even lightly, in Nigeria, MTN Nigeria network collapses, data gone, airtime useless. Are your fiber optic cables made of tissue paper? Nigerians deserve better. #AACOURPARTY #OCCUPYMTN”
Screenshots of Omoyele Sowore’s Post on Facebook
Following his remarks, social media users shared mixed reactions. Some supported his stance, saying they have experienced rapid data depletion and high costs, while others argued that such claims should be backed with clear evidence and proper regulatory engagement.
Adeniyi Obatola, a civil servant condemned what he called MTN’s anti- people policy, blaming the federal government for “Tolerating foreign companies with exploitative tendency against Nigerians, as our leaders look away in complicity.”
Deborah Okonkwo, a hairdresser told this medium that “Our leaders have sold this country in Bazaar to exploiters like MTN, a company that behaves in a way that suggests it’s above the law. It’s sheer exploitation. As our leaders cheat and rob us, their foreign compradors in form of exploiters like the South Africa MTN do what ever they like.”
Prekemeh Diri, a banker said ” MTN who should be called to order, and I strongly support Sowore’s call for action against MTN.”
A woman who identified as Josephine said ” We should not blame MTN but a weak oversight and poor regulatory framework that allows what MTN and other network to do what they are doing.
The conversation has also drawn attention to the broader issue of internet affordability and service transparency in Nigeria, with many calling for improved regulation and clearer billing systems. For now, MTN Nigeria has not publicly responded to the statement, leaving the discussion open as reactions continue to pour in.
Netizens also took a swipe at MTN while reacting to Sowore’s post.
Akaninyene John wrote “MTN is no more everywhere you go but at only in some spots”
Sydney Icon wrote “MTN must stop their exploitation on Nigerians. Enough of all that.”
Comedian Peters Igbekilu wrote “My best presidential candidate, ride on sir. We Dey your back. MTN don too do us. We will go to airtel and glo later then DSTV”
Blue Geacen Digital Communication wrote “Network issues during heavy rain are often linked to infrastructure and weather impact on telecom signals, not intentional neglect.
A stronger, more reliable network investment is needed to meet Nigerians’ growing demand for stable connectivity.”
Ciao Oga Boss wrote “Isn’t that why we have other network providers? You can switch to Glo or Airtel if you think they’re better than MTN.”
Oladapo Samuel wrote “Person go get data and you won’t able to access internet… how come data expire”
Emmanuel Adindu wrote “But if u go to South Africa, where the MTN came from u will never have network issues…. God forbid”
Ifeanyi Charles Nnamani wrote “Tell me about it.
I wonder if they are an offshoot of Nepa that takes light one small thunderstorm sounds?”
Jummie Gold wrote “I’m supposed to be swearing for MTN everyday the way dem Dey thief my data”
Ina LA wrote “I honestly don’t understand what’s happening anymore.
I have been buying data almost every two days and it runs out faster as the speed of light and sound.”
Ufezime Nelson Obi wrote “Nigerians, enough is enough!
Raise your voices and demand accountability from MTN MTN Nigeria, Airtel Airtel Nigeria, Glo Glo World, 9mobile T2mobileNg and Starlink nationwide, especially MTN which is the worst in draining our data and airtime like blood and overcharging us with bogus subscription fees. We will no longer remain silent while we are exploited daily. Demand fair pricing, demand transparency, and stand united for your rights as consumers.”
Ojediran Samuel Adesoji Osa wrote “I once discussed this issue by these telecom companies with you and you asked me to go ahead with my petition against them. I’m glad we have a case now. To this, we must add the issue of data expiration. On no account should our data expire.
South Africa’s EFF just threatened to shot down mtn operation in the country, should data expiration continue.”
Tolu Bells wrote “MTN Nigeria better do the needful Omoyele Sowore is coming for you. A word is enough”.
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