By Daniel Okejeme
Thousands of MTN subscribers have besieged their outlets in Abuja and nationwide, venting their anger and discontent over the telecommunications provider’s sudden blocking of their phone numbers.
According to reports, enforcement of the NIN-SIM linkage policy triggered the phone number blockage, cutting off numerous subscribers from their mobile services and preventing them from accessing their accounts.
Persecondnews recalls that MTN, along with other network providers, has been warning users about the disconnection of their lines if they fail to link them to their National Identification Numbers (NIN).
Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), reaffirmed the agency’s directive on February 27.
Maida, during the NCC’s Special Day at the 45th Kaduna International Trade Fair, instructed telecom operators to disconnect subscribers who fail to link their NIN by February 28, 2024.
He said: “To this end, the NC has directed all telecommunication operators to bar the phone lines of subscribers whose lines are not linked to their NINs on or before February 28, 2024.”
Reacting to the development, the subscribers expressed their disgust and angst at being yanked off suddenly.
Mr. Timothy Mboru, a visibly angry customer, expressed his extreme disappointment with MTN, stating that their recent actions have shattered his previous perception of the service provider as competent.
Mboru claimed that he obtained his NIN in January 2023 and had successfully linked it to all his phone lines, including MTN.
He, however, said he was astonished to discover on Sunday that he was unable to make calls despite having completed the required NIN linkage.
He said: “The hardship I went through to obtain my NIN and link it to my phone lines has been rendered pointless, as I’m now forced to return and address the same issue again.”
Another customer, who simply gave his name as Okechukwu, lamented that his blocked line had resulted in the loss of numerous business opportunities in just one day.
He further explained that his phone number is tied to his account, making it impossible for him to receive notifications about transactions, including incoming payments.
He expressed frustration, saying, “I’ve registered my line and submitted my NIN, yet I’m still facing this issue. It’s unacceptable and hurts my livelihood.”
He emphasized that his phone is his office, and the disruption has caused him to miss potential customers and business opportunities.
He suggested the possibility of taking legal action against MTN and seeking compensation for damages.
Another customer, Mrs. Sikiratu Ibrahim, admitted that she had not linked her line with her NIN, despite knowing the requirements.
She said: “Based on what I’m witnessing, even those who have already linked their lines are being blocked. I’m begging them to show compassion, extend the deadline, and restore our lines.
“As a cleaner, this phone number is my lifeline; it’s the only way my customers can reach me.”
On his part, Mr. Titus Mfon said he initially thought the sudden blocking of lines was a deliberate move to distract them from an upcoming protest.
He questioned the timing, saying, “Why did they choose to block our lines just days before the protest?
“It’s clear they want to keep us occupied trying to resolve this issue instead of participating in the protest.”
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