A Nigerian subscriber has publicly called out MTN Nigeria on X (formerly Twitter), over what he described as unusually rapid data depletion, reigniting concerns about billing transparency in the country’s telecom sector.

In a widely circulated complaint, the customer alleged that a weekly data subscription was exhausted in less than 48 hours despite regular usage patterns. “How can someone do a weekly subscription and it finishes in less than 48 hours? I’m spending ₦10,000 every week buying data,” he said, reflecting growing frustration among users over rising data costs and perceived inconsistencies in usage tracking.

The complaint adds to a pattern of criticism previously directed at the telecom giant by activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, who had accused the company of exploiting subscribers through excessive and unexplained data charges.

Sowore, in earlier remarks, described telecom providers, particularly MTN as engaging in practices that allegedly shortchange users, claiming that purchased data often depletes faster than expected.

While such claims remain contested and unverified, they have continued to fuel public debate around accountability and consumer protection within Nigeria’s telecommunications industry.

The renewed backlash also comes amid the recent announcement of MTN Nigeria, suspending its airtime and data advance service known as Xtratime.

Industry observers note that the suspension of these services has further intensified scrutiny of telecom pricing models and revenue streams, with consumers increasingly questioning billing structures and service delivery standards.

The situation underscores broader concerns about transparency, regulation, and consumer trust in Nigeria’s fast-growing digital economy.

Subscribers continue to call for clearer communication from service providers and stronger enforcement of consumer protection standards to address recurring complaints in the sector. (Guardian)

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