Nigeria’s largest telecom operator, MTN, has issued a public apology to its customers following widespread backlash over a sudden 200% increase in the price of its popular 15GB data bundle.
The price hike, which raised the cost of a 15GB weekly data plan from N2,000 to N6,000, took many subscribers by surprise, sparking outrage on social media. Customers expressed frustration over the abrupt change, with many criticizing the telecom giant for failing to provide prior notice.
In response, MTN shared an informal and conversational apology on social media on Thursday, acknowledging the frustrations of its users and attempting to ease the growing discontent.
“To our 15GB digital bundle lovers. You dey vex. We know. We know how upsetting it must have been to suddenly wake up to a 200% increase on your favorite digital bundle,” the message 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.”
MTN further urged customers not to remain angry, appealing to them with a lighthearted tone: “In this love season, don’t stay angry with us. Please forgive and forget. You matter die and we will never stop showing you how much. Let’s continue our relationship. Thank you for your understanding.”
While MTN is currently the only major telecom provider to implement a price increase, industry watchers anticipate that Airtel and Globacom may soon follow suit. This expectation arises after the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) approved a 50% tariff hike in January, allowing telecom companies to adjust their pricing structures.
However, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has condemned the implementation of the tariff hike, demanding an immediate reversal. The labor union argues that such an increase places an additional financial burden on Nigerians already struggling with economic challenges.
As the debate continues, MTN’s apology seeks to mend its relationship with subscribers, but whether customers will be willing to “forgive and forget” remains uncertain.
