The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has issued a 10-day ultimatum to telecommunications giant MTN, demanding the immediate reversal of its recently increased data tariffs.
MTN has faced intense backlash after raising its data prices, with some bundles experiencing hikes of up to 200%. This increase reportedly exceeded the 50% cap supposedly approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). Chronicles Reporters revealed that the 15GB data bundle, for instance, jumped from N2000 to N6000, while the 1.5TB plan saw its price rise from N150,000 to N240,000. Other bundles, such as the 100GB and 600GB plans, also saw significant price hikes, sparking outrage among subscribers.
Initially, MTN defended the price changes, explaining on X (formerly Twitter) that the hike was meant to improve services. However, amid mounting criticism, the company admitted that the 200% price increase was a mistake. MTN later issued an apology to its customers, particularly to those affected by the 15GB bundle, stating, “You dey vex. We know. We understand how upsetting it must have been to wake up to a sudden 200% increase on your favorite digital bundle. We get it, and we admit it. Let’s just say it was a mistake.”
Despite the apology, MTN has not confirmed whether it will reduce or reverse the price hikes, leaving many frustrated. This situation has led to a wider debate about whether telecom companies are adhering to regulatory limits and prioritizing consumer welfare.
The National Association of Polytechnic Students condemned the hike, calling it a “blatant display of greed” that threatens students’ access to education. NAPS, which represents polytechnic students across Nigeria, voiced strong opposition to the new tariffs, stating that students rely heavily on affordable internet access for academic work, such as research and assignments.
In a statement issued on Monday and signed by NAPS President Comrade Festus Oyewumi, the association expressed outrage over the tariff increase, calling it an attack on students’ rights to education. “Our students depend on affordable data for research, assignments, and projects. This increase will make it impossible for many to afford the data they need, directly hindering their academic success and future prospects,” the statement read.
NAPS called on the government and regulatory bodies to intervene and ensure that telecommunications companies offer affordable services to students. The statement continued, “We will not tolerate MTN’s actions, and we demand an immediate reversal of the tariff increase. If MTN refuses to comply, we will take drastic measures, including nationwide protests and shutting down their offices.”
The association gave MTN a 10-day deadline to reverse the price increase. If the company does not act, NAPS warned that it would mobilize students for protests and ensure MTN is held accountable for its actions. “We will not be silenced. We will continue to fight until MTN reverses the tariff increase and provides affordable services to our students,” the statement concluded.
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