RismadarVoice Reporters, May 5, 2026
Human rights activist and political figure Omoyele Sowore has accused major telecommunications companies in Nigeria of exploiting customers through alleged excessive data depletion practices, warning that nationwide protests could follow after the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued to MTN Nigeria.
Sowore, speaking on the issue, alleged that subscribers continue to experience unusually fast depletion of data bundles despite purchasing large packages intended to last for extended periods.
He singled out MTN Nigeria as the primary offender, describing the situation as persistent exploitation of consumers.
According to him, the ultimatum issued to the telecom operator has now expired without any meaningful response or improvement. He further claimed that partial refunds reportedly issued to some customers were insufficient and amounted to an attempt to manage public perception rather than address the underlying complaints.
Sowore also alleged that similar concerns affect other operators, including Airtel Nigeria and Globacom, suggesting that the issue may be systemic within the country’s telecommunications sector. He further accused relevant regulatory bodies of failing to adequately intervene.
He warned that coordinated protests could be launched across Nigeria if the situation remains unresolved, stating that activists were already on standby to mobilise demonstrations targeting telecom offices nationwide.
Nigeria’s telecommunications sector is regulated by the Nigerian Communications Commission, which has previously faced pressure to enforce stricter consumer protection measures and address recurring disputes between subscribers and service providers.
As of the time of filing this report, none of the companies named had issued an official response to the latest allegations.
