In response to widespread outrage from subscribers, MTN, Nigeria’s leading telecommunications provider, has decided to close all its stores and service centers across the country.
The decision comes after a significant backlash over the company’s recent actions to block lines due to discrepancies between subscribers’ National Identification Numbers (NIN) and SIM registrations.
The controversy began when MTN barred lines on Sunday, triggering a strong reaction from affected customers. A viral video circulated on social media on Monday, showing a large, angry crowd vandalizing an MTN office in FESTAC Town, Lagos State.
The footage depicted the mob destroying a barricade fence and causing considerable damage to the telecommunications company’s property.
The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, addressed the situation by confirming that the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of FESTAC and his team had managed to restore order and bring peace back to the area. Hundeyin condemned the violence and emphasized that such actions were not an appropriate response.
In light of the unrest and to address the situation, MTN announced on Tuesday that it would shut down all its shops nationwide for the day. The company’s statement, posted on social media, notified customers that all MTN stores and service centers would be closed on July 30, 2024.
The company’s decision to close its operations reflects the seriousness of the situation and the company’s effort to manage the fallout from the SIM registration and NIN verification issues that have sparked significant public outcry.