By JKNewsMedia
LAST WEEK’s sudden 200% hike in data bundle prices has triggered widespread backlash against the Mobile Telephone Networks (MTN) Group Limited, leaving many subscribers frustrated over the unexpected increase.
The telecommunications company had raised the cost of its 15GB weekly data plan from N2,000 to N6,000 before later admitting the move was a mistake.
Following public outrage, MTN has issued an apology, acknowledging the sudden change as an error.
In a statement filled with colloquial expressions, the company assured customers that it understood their grievances.
“We know how upsetting it must have been to suddenly wake up to a 200% increase on your favourite digital bundle,” the statement read.
“We could share several reasons, and provide explanations, but omo, all that one na story. We don cast. We get it and admit it. Let’s just say na mistake.”
Despite the apology, further scrutiny revealed that MTN had again adjusted the price, now listing the 15GB data plan at N6,500.
Additionally, the company reclassified the plan from a weekly to a monthly subscription, a move that has intensified customer dissatisfaction.
Media reports note that the data price adjustment follows the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) granting approval for telecommunications operators to increase tariffs.
This marks the first official review of mobile data and voice pricing structures since 2013.
However, the House of Representatives recently directed the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy to suspend the 50% tariff hike.
MTN’s decision to go ahead with the increase, despite regulatory and parliamentary interventions, also raised concerns among consumers already grappling with economic hardships.
Many users have subsequently taken to social media to criticise the company, calling for more transparency in pricing adjustments and better communication regarding future changes.
