By Dada Ahmed in Lokoja
There are strong indications that the recent disruption in MTN services across Kogi State will soon be resolved, bringing relief and hope to users affected by the temporary shutdown.
A reliable source, who spoke anonymously with The Reporters in Lokoja on Friday, expressed optimism that both the Kogi State Government and MTN Nigeria are engaging in constructive dialogue to reach a peaceful resolution.
Our correspondent recalls that the state government, through the Kogi State Internal Revenue Service (KGIRS) and the Kogi State Infrastructural and Utility Management Compliance Agency (KIUMCA), initiated enforcement action against MTN,last week, citing concerns over tax compliance.
At a joint press conference held at the KGIRS headquarters, Executive Chairman of KGIRS and Director General of KIUMCA clarified the rationale behind the enforcement, stressing that it was a legal and necessary step following extended negotiations with the telecom operator.
Dr. Taufiq Isa, Director General of KIUMCA, explained that the decision to restrict access to some MTN facilities was made with due legal backing from the Kogi State High Court after MTN allegedly failed to meet certain obligations.
“While enforcement was necessary at this stage, we recognize the impact on residents and sincerely apologize for the inconvenience. We are committed to resolving this matter swiftly,” Dr. Isa said.
He urged affected users to remain patient and make temporary use of alternative services.
Also speaking at the briefing, KGIRS’ Director in charge of Ministries, Developments and Agencies, Hajiya Hasanna Salawu, who represented KGIRS Chairman Alhaji Sule Salihu, noted that other telecom operators had complied with the state’s requirements, and similar issues had been amicably settled in the past.
She reaffirmed that the government’s goal is not to punish but to ensure fairness and accountability across all sectors.
Importantly, the officials emphasized that doors remain open for continued dialogue and collaboration with MTN and The Reporters gathered that both parties are now showing willingness to reach a mutually beneficial solution.
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Residents in Lokoja who rely on the MTN network have voiced concern over the challenges they are currently facing in both personal and business activities due to the ongoing service disruption.
Speaking with The Reporters in Lokoja and Okene, many subscribers described the situation as difficult but expressed optimism that a resolution is near, given the reported efforts by the state government and MTN to find common ground.
“We understand the importance of tax compliance, but we also rely heavily on the network for daily transactions and communication. We just want a solution that works for everyone,”a resident in Okene,Mal. Ahmadu Aliyu said.
Some residents also emphasized the need for better communication and collaboration between telecom providers and government agencies to prevent future shutdowns, which they say affect not just individuals but the local economy.
They also pointed out that with the recent increase in tariffs by network providers, it has become even more crucial for these companies to fulfill their tax responsibilities to the state.
“We pay more for these services now, so we expect providers to meet their obligations and avoid actions that inconvenience users,” a Lokoja resident,Mrs Agnes Ajayi remarked.
