Human rights activist and African Action Congress presidential hopeful for 2027, Omoyele Sowore, has criticised remarks by MTN Nigeria Chief Executive Officer Karl Toriola regarding the availability of unlimited mobile data services.
The disagreement followed a public discussion in Lagos where the MTN chief argued that truly unlimited data plans are not practical on mobile networks. According to him, telecom operators worldwide place limits on data usage to maintain service quality and network performance, adding that unrestricted access at low prices is not sustainable.
Responding through a post on social media, Sowore dismissed the claim, insisting that consumers in several countries have access to unlimited or near-unlimited data packages at affordable rates. He argued that Nigerians pay relatively high prices for services that often fall short in terms of quality and reliability.
The activist accused telecom companies of relying on explanations rather than addressing customer concerns over network performance and rising costs. He maintained that subscribers deserve better service and more consumer-friendly pricing.
Sowore also suggested that a nationwide protest against MTN could be organised if concerns about tariffs and service quality remain unresolved.
The exchange comes amid continued debate over telecom pricing in Nigeria following tariff adjustments approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission. Operators have defended the increases, citing inflationary pressures, currency depreciation, and the need to support infrastructure investment.
MTN has repeatedly stated that mobile data in Nigeria remains among the most affordable globally. However, critics argue that comparisons should also take into account service quality, purchasing power, and the availability of higher-capacity data plans in other countries.
The debate has sparked reactions online, with some Nigerians living abroad sharing examples of data packages in their host countries that they claim offer more generous usage allowances at competitive prices.
