Protest Rocks MTN Office Over Data Costs

OpenLife reports that tension briefly unfolded at the Abuja headquarters of MTN Nigeria as a group of protesters, led by activist Omoyele Sowore, gathered to express dissatisfaction over the increasing cost of mobile data services in the country.

The demonstrators arrived at the company’s premises in a coordinated move, drawing attention from staff, security personnel, and bystanders.

Their presence quickly turned vocal as chants filled the air, with protesters repeatedly shouting, “MTN ole, MTN ole! (th!eves)” while advancing toward the facility.

The phrase, used in local street slang, was directed at what they described as unfair pricing practices by the telecommunications giant.

Participants at the scene argued that the rising cost of internet access has placed a heavy burden on many Nigerians, particularly young people, students, and small-scale entrepreneurs who depend on affordable connectivity for daily activities, education, and business operations.

They insisted that the situation reflects a broader concern about the affordability of essential digital services in the country.

Sowore, addressing the gathering during the protest, reinforced the group’s position and called for immediate reconsideration of data pricing.

He also urged relevant authorities to take a closer look at the telecommunications sector, emphasizing that access to the internet should not be treated as a luxury in a modern economy.

The demonstration attracted significant online attention as clips of the event spread across social media platforms, fueling further debate on telecom tariffs and consumer welfare.

At the time of reporting, MTN Nigeria had not released an official response regarding the protest or the demands raised by the demonstrators.