MTN Sued for N1bn in Osun
Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo
Osun State has filed a lawsuit amounting to N1 billion against MTN for alleged defamation, saying that the telecommunications giant published false information about the state recently.
The case, with suit number HOS/99/2024, is currently before the High Court of Osun State.
Morenike George-Taylor of Global Transactions Nigeria Limited, the sole consultants to the Osun State government on telecommunications infra-structure, has also informed that a case has commenced against MTN for breaches of the Osun State Environmental Protection Law 2022.
She said the matter was reported to the police in Osun State and a petition is pending.
Taylor stressed that despite ongoing disputes regarding an outstanding payment of N945 million owed to the Osun State government, MTN cables are reportedly still being laid by some people in the state.
She noted that in response to these developments, letters have been sent to the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Federal House of Assembly, while the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has also been notified.
George-Taylor emphasised that these actions would form the basis of a landmark case against the Critical National Infrastructure Bill, passed in June 2024.
She stated that telecommunications companies cannot evade their tax obligations by hiding behind legal statutes.
As the situation unfolds, Osun State remains steadfast in its pursuit of justice, seeking accountability from MTN for its actions and compliance with local laws.
