MTN Responds to Data Theft Accusations, Assures Nigerians of Transparency 

Nigerians have raised concerns over the rapid depletion of mobile data, prompting calls for an investigation into telecom operators. In response, MTN has strongly denied any involvement in data theft, insisting that improved networks and higher usage habits are the real reasons for faster data consumption. 

Growing Concerns Over Data Depletion 

Many Nigerian subscribers have accused MTN and other telecom operators of unfairly consuming their data. Complaints have flooded the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), with customers demanding an investigation into unexplained data consumption. 

A similar situation is occurring in Ghana, where MTN customers have raised similar complaints. Addressing these claims, Stephen Blewett, Chief Executive Officer of MTN Ghana, reassured customers that the telecom giant has no reason to steal their data. 

MTN’s CEO: “We Have No Reason to Steal Your Data” 

Speaking from MTN House in Accra, Blewett dismissed the notion that MTN manipulates data usage for profit. He noted that these complaints are common in every country where he has worked. 

    “I swear to God as my witness: we have no reason to steal your data,” he stated firmly. 

He explained that MTN’s revenue and financial reports are independently audited, meaning any illegal data siphoning would be detected. Additionally, his personal performance bonus is tied to declared revenue, making it impractical to manipulate data charges. 

Why Does Data Deplete So Quickly? 

Blewett attributed the rapid consumption of data to the advancement of internet networks and how digital platforms automatically adjust to higher-quality connections. 

    “A better network speeds up data use. YouTube switches to higher resolution on stronger signals—it’s like Pac-Man eating your data. “We don’t control that,” he explained. 

He added that the shift from 3G and 4G to 5G networks has also contributed to higher data usage, as improved internet speeds encourage users to stream more videos and download larger files without realizing the impact on their data balance. 

“A better network speeds up data use. YouTube switches to higher resolution on stronger signals—it’s like Pac-Man eating your data. We don’t control that.” — Stephen Blewett, MTN Ghana CEO 

MTN’s Commitment to Transparency 

To address customer concerns and prevent billing errors, Blewett emphasized that MTN has: 

 Independent audits to verify accurate billing 

 Revenue assurance teams to check for discrepancies 

 Internal controls to prevent revenue leaks or unfair charges 

    “We don’t want revenue leaks or incorrect billing,” he assured, urging Nigerians to trust the company’s processes. 

What Nigerians Should Do 

    Monitor Your Data Usage: Check your device settings to see which apps consume the most data. 

    Use Data-Saving Features: Reduce streaming quality on YouTube and social media apps. 

    Report Issues to the NCC: If you notice irregularities in your data consumption, file a complaint with the regulatory authorities. 

    Stay Informed: Be aware of how network changes impact data usage. 

While Nigerians remain frustrated over vanishing data, MTN insists that improved network speeds—not fraudulent practices—are responsible. The telecom company assures users that all financial activities are transparent and audited. 

To protect their data, Nigerians must adopt smart usage habits, track consumption, and hold telecom providers accountable where necessary. 

What are your thoughts on this issue? Have you experienced rapid data depletion? Share your experience!