Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has called for a nationwide protest tagged #OccupyMTN, targeting telecom giant MTN Nigeria and pay-TV provider DStv Nigeria.
Sowore made the announcement while addressing growing concerns among Nigerian consumers over what he described as unfair practices by the two companies, particularly in relation to billing transparency and service delivery.
According to Sowore, the protest is aimed at drawing attention to several key issues affecting millions of Nigerians who rely on telecom and pay-TV services daily.
One of the major complaints raised against MTN Nigeria is the expiration of unused data without compensation. Many customers have long expressed frustration over losing paid data after validity periods lapse, with no rollover or refund system in place.
In addition, Sowore criticized DStv Nigeria over alleged lack of proper billing transparency, claiming that customers often do not receive clear receipts or accurate records for their subscriptions. This, he said, has made it difficult for users to track payments and verify charges.
Sowore further argued that Nigerian customers are treated unfairly compared to subscribers in other countries where similar companies operate. He accused both firms of maintaining standards in Nigeria that fall below international benchmarks.
He also blamed regulatory agencies and the government for what he described as a failure to hold corporations accountable, thereby allowing these issues to persist without meaningful intervention.
The #OccupyMTN movement is expected to involve multiple forms of civic action across the country. Supporters have been encouraged to:
Participate in peaceful street protests
Visit MTN and DStv offices nationwide
Demand better service policies and accountability
Raise awareness on social media using the #OccupyMTN hashtag
The protest aims to amplify consumer voices and push for reforms that prioritize fairness and transparency in service delivery.
The announcement has sparked conversations online, with many Nigerians sharing personal experiences related to data loss, billing concerns, and customer service challenges.
Industry observers note that if the protests gain traction, they could increase pressure on telecom and pay-TV providers to review their policies and improve customer relations.
The planned protest highlights ongoing tensions between service providers and consumers in Nigeria’s digital economy. As reliance on internet and subscription services continues to grow, issues around data usage policies, billing transparency, and consumer rights are becoming increasingly important.
Analysts say that sustained public pressure could lead to policy changes, regulatory reviews, or improved service standards across the sector.
The #OccupyMTN protest call by Omoyele Sowore reflects rising dissatisfaction among Nigerian consumers over telecom and pay-TV services. As the situation develops, attention will likely focus on how companies like MTN Nigeria and DStv Nigeria respond, and whether regulatory authorities step in to address the concerns raised.