South Africa owned telecommunications giant, MTN Nigeria closes shops nationwide, as they released a statement on Wednesday reacting to the Xenophobic attacks in South Africa, and fear of a reprisal attack by Nigerians.
MTN Nigeria closes shops as there have been reports which we cannot substantiate, of the burning of some MTN offices across Nigeria after a series of attacks on Nigerians and their businesses in South Africa. Although the actions by some South Africans have been condemned by all, the minister of Foreign Affairs Geoffrey Onyeama says the South African government was not doing enough to bring the crisis under control and stop the Xenophobic attacks on other African nationals.
According to NAN, there have been reports of an attempts by some angry Nigerians to attack South African owned companies in Nigeria on Tuesday, including MTN, Dstv and Shoprite, but the Nigerian Police were on ground to forestall any break down of law and order, but unfortunately one person lost his life after he was allegedly shot dead by a Police officer during a protest.
In a message to its subscribers on Wednesday, MTN Nigeria announced the closure of its shops and the operation of only its online platforms, saying:
”Yello! Our shops are unavailable today. You can reach us on Twitter- @MTN180, MTNonline.com/Livechat, chat on MyMTN App. For Call Center dial 180. Thank you.
The telecom operator did not say when the shops would be reopened.
Later in a statement, MTN said:
“MTN Nigeria Communications PLC confirms that over the last day, our facilities, customers and some of our stakeholders have been the subject of attacks in retaliation for the ongoing xenophobic situation in South Africa,” the statement read.
“We have confirmed reports of attacks in Lagos, Ibadan and Uyo. While we remain committed to providing uninterrupted services, the safety and security of our customers, staff and partners is our primary concern.
“All MTN stores and service centres will, therefore, be closed as a precaution until further notice.
“MTN condemns any acts of violence, prejudice and xenophobia and remains absolutely committed to ensuring a peaceful, harmonious and respectful relationship with all communities in Nigeria and across Africa.”