MTN Nigeria has shut its stores and service centres until further notice following attacks on four MTN branches in three cities in retaliation for xenophobic attacks on Nigerian nationals in South Africa.
MTN confirmed today that over the last day, four MTN outlets in Nigeria have been the subject of attacks and that it also had to close some stores in Johannesburg. There are no reported injuries.
It said: “While we remain committed to providing uninterrupted services, the safety and security of our customers, staff and partners is our primary concern. MTN’s stores and service centres in Nigeria have therefore been closed as a precaution.
MTN is working with the relevant authorities and other stakeholders to focus on stabilising the situation both in Nigeria and South Africa and to ensure the safety and well-being of all those impacted by the unfortunate violence. We are also looking at coordinating with key stakeholders to work on medium to long term interventions to this situation.
As a company, we remain committed to ensuring a peaceful, harmonious and respectful relationship with all our stakeholders across Africa.”
MTN Group reiterated its stand against any form of xenophobia and damage to property and said it remained concerned about the situation in its markets.
In a statement issued yesterday, MTN Group said: “As MTN we strongly condemn prejudice and xenophobia and we reiterate our unequivocal condemnation of any and all violence. As a leading pan-African telecommunications company with operations in 21 countries, MTN believes in the potential of an Africa whose nations pursue deeper trade, integration and cooperation.
We actively encourage the dialogue necessary to maintain peace and sustain strong relationships and urge all our customers and stakeholders to support and defend the principles of human rights, diversity and inclusion and an integrated collaborative Africa.”
