Reno Omokri has expressed apprehension about the negative impact of MTN monopoly on the Nigerian economy.
He urged President Bola Tinubu to scrutinize the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) board. Omokri alleges an anti-Nigerian sentiment within the board, drawing parallels to the P&ID scam that almost cost Nigeria $10 billion.
He questioned MTN’s authorization to collect value-added tax (VAT) as a foreign-owned telecommunications company, raising concerns about the relationship between certain NCC board members and MTN.
Notably, he highlighted the presence of a former senior staff from FIRS on the board, hinting a potential conflict of interest issues that warrants investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
The article questions the NCC’s decision to grant a foreign telecommunications company, officially labeled a hostile monopoly by the Ghanaian government, the power to exhibit monopolistic tendencies in Nigeria.
Reno pointed out the alarming capital flight caused by MTN and Airtel, estimating a daily outflow of nearly $20 million to South Africa and India, respectively.
The report further alleges that Helen Obi, an NCC staff, undermined a Nigerian telecommunications firm on behalf of MTN, using unverified information that has since been debunked. Omokri suggests a possible agenda to undermine the efforts of the Tinubu administration to revive the economy and strengthen the Naira.
As concerns mount, calls are growing for a thorough investigation by anti-corruption agencies to assess the alleged connections, conflicts of interest, and potential detrimental effects on the Nigerian economy caused by MTN’s operations.
The socialite disclosed this on his social media handle. Reno’s assertion, however, lead to divergent opinions expressed by Nigerians.
@NgodoOnneh replied, “Let me clear your doubt… I once work with MTN….. Most of the MTN offices around Nigeria cities are not actually owned by MTN from South Africa but Nigeria Senators and House representative members… Go and verify.”
@Oluwatayofem reacted, “saying Reno is now even up to the task of enlightening and helping debunking fake news in Nigeria than @NOA_Nigeria headed by Isa Onilu , the @PBATMediaCentre @nncupdate @moigovgh and other appointees of @officialABAT.”
Reno Omokri who recently celebrated his 50th birth anniversary was a spokesperson for the PDP in the last general election held in 2023.
