Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has sparked fresh controversy after accusing telecommunications giant MTN Nigeria of exploiting subscribers through rapid data depletion.
In a viral statement circulating earlier this week, Sowore alleged that many Nigerians are being unfairly charged for data services that do not last as expected, a concern that has long been raised by mobile users across the country.
“We have to go after MTN, they’re the biggest data thieves in the world today. You’ll buy 5k worth of data and by the time you wake up, it would have disappeared. MTN is looting your data and by extension, they’re destroying your life,” Sowore said.
His remarks have since triggered widespread reactions online, with many subscribers sharing similar experiences about fast data consumption and unclear billing patterns.
Sowore also called for stronger scrutiny of telecom operators, stressing the need for accountability and consumer protection.
“We cannot continue to allow this kind of exploitation to go unchecked. Nigerians are working hard to earn money, only for their data to vanish without explanation. There must be accountability and proper scrutiny of these telecom companies,” he added.
The development comes amid ongoing concerns about transparency in Nigeria’s telecom sector, where users have repeatedly demanded clearer billing systems and improved service delivery.
As of the time of filing this report, MTN Nigeria has not issued an official response to the allegations.