Broadcast Media Africa has learnt that Nigeria’s Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has launched an inquiry into telecoms giant MTN Nigeria in response to consumer complaints about bad service.
The announcement was made this week in a statement by FCCPC. The report said the investigation will occur from December 3 to December 5, during which time the company must offer information to assist the FCCPC in resolving these issues.
“MTN will be required to appear before the Commission on designated days to provide information and responses to enable the Commission to make determinations and resolve pending issues promptly,” the FCCPC’s press release states.
The FCCPC emphasised its dedication to safeguarding consumer rights and upholding fair market practices.
The FCCPC’s inquiry is being conducted under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, which authorises the commission to examine acts that violate consumer rights and disturb market fairness.
Customers have also experienced ongoing service outages as MTN struggles with declining internet connection quality, which impedes customers’ online activity.
The telco reported a whopping US$313 million loss in the first half of 2024, owing to foreign exchange losses caused by excessive inflation and naira depreciation.
Furthermore, MTN alleges Nigerian banks owe it US$150 million for USSD services, which has hampered its ability to maintain its network.
MTN CEO Karl Toriola recently urged for an urgent adjustment in data pricing, warning that without this change, the business may be unable to continue operations.
He said: “There should be no delusion; if the tariff doesn’t go up, we will shut down.”
As a result, the FCCPC plans to question Toriola about ongoing concerns about MTN’s data services, such as alleged unexplained depletion and inadequate customer care.
According to the statement, the FCCPC urges customers to report bad service and unethical tactics using its proper channels.
