The government of Osun state in Nigeria has shut down a number of base stations belonging to MTN Nigeria as a result of the network’s failure to pay taxes, fees and charges for the laying of its fibre optic cables since 2013.
The state government through the acting chairman and chief executive officer (CEO) of Osun State Internal Revenue Service Dayo Oyebanji said it decided to take action after pursuing all other possible steps, including consultation and persuasion.
Oyebanji told newsmen a meeting held with the representatives of the network unanimously concluded the outstanding dues would be paid by the close of business on Friday, May 16.
He said the government also reduced the amount owed by the network from NGN399 million (US$2.5 million) to NGN207.6 million (US$1.3 million) for the right of way and NGN135.7 million (US$835,000) for base stations, which MTN has still failed to pay.
Funso Aina, public relations manager of MTN Nigeria, confirmed there was an issue over right of way but described the government’s action as surprising.
“We are already in talks with them. That is why we are surprised at the turn of events,” he said.
