Xenophobia: MTN Shuts Down All Shops In Nigeria After Abuja Branch Was Set Ablaze [Video]

Published: September 4, 2019

South-African Telecommunications Giant, MTN has shut down all its shops in Nigeria in the wake of reprisal attacks due to Xenophobia against Nigerians/foreigners in South-Africa.

Since reports of the attacks in South Africa broke, Nigerians have stormed the premises of several businesses of South African origin such as Shoprite and MTN in Ibadan, Lagos, and a few other locations.

Just this morning, some protesters burned the MTN office in Lugbe area of Abuja, in a bid to express their displeasure over xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa.

MTN office in Lugbe pic.twitter.com/XsWQQhnYoA
— ABUJA FACTS (@Abuja_Facts) September 4, 2019

MTN Boss in Nigeria, Ferdi Moolman has condemned the xenophobic attacks in South Africa and called for peace and harmony.

In a message to its subscribers on Wednesday, MTN Nigeria announced the closure of its shops and the operation of only its online platforms.

”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 message read.

In a statement made available on Wednesday, the company also confirmed attacks on its facilities in Lagos, Ibadan and Uyo. The statement read;

“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 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.”