MTN Nigeria Denies Data Theft Claims, Blames User Settings

MTN Nigeria has rejected allegations that the company deliberately depletes subscriber data, instead pointing to how users interact with their devices as the primary cause of rapid bundle consumption. The telecommunications firm made the clarification at a public engagement event held in Abuja on Monday, where company executives fielded questions and concerns from consumers and industry stakeholders.

General Manager of Network Performance Mike Ndukwe identified several factors driving data exhaustion among users. These include streaming video at high resolution, automatic file downloads triggered by apps, background processes running on smartphones without user knowledge, and cloud storage backups.

Ndukwe advised subscribers to review and adjust their device settings to better manage data usage. The company asserted that many customers unknowingly permit applications to consume substantial data even when the phone is not in active use.

MTN Nigeria Chief Executive Officer Karl Toriola used the event to explain the company's billing practices and operational expenses. Toriola stated that the firm's billing system operates with transparency and aligns with international standards.

He also outlined the significant costs MTN incurs in maintaining its network infrastructure across Nigeria, including N4.05 trillion in power expenditure. Toriola described the forum as a courtroom-style discussion designed to allow open exchange between the company, consumers, and stakeholders about data consumption and pricing.

The event, branded as 'Data on Trial', was structured to enable subscribers to ask questions and raise grievances directly with MTN leadership. The company positioned the forum as part of its broader effort to educate consumers about how mobile data works and to rebuild trust through transparent communication about billing and network operations.

No new pricing changes or service adjustments were announced during the engagement.