By Uche Mbah
Following reprisal actions by hoodlums who decided to attack South African concerns in Nigeria, MTN Nigeria has decided to suspend operations till further notice.
Recall that South African citizens has been destroying shops and attacking foreigners in unprecedented xenophobic attacks in that former Apatheid country. The South African Police has described that as Pure criminality.
Some Nigerians have gone ahead to destroy South African concerns in Nigeria, particularly Shoprite and MTN. Shoprite was also forced to shut down their retail shops nationwide.
In a release, MTN said they are involved in discussions with various stakeholders to bring the situation under control.
“Over the last day, our facilities, customers and some of our stakeholders have been the subject of attacks in retaliation for the ongoing xenophobia situation in South Africa. We have confirmed reports of attacks in Lagos, Ibadan and Uyo”, the release said..
“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.
“We are engaging all relevant authorities in this regard and urge them to act swiftly to reduce tensions both in South Africa and Nigeria. We will provide further updates as and when possible.”
There are over a hundred businesses linked to South African nationals in Nigeria, and these have been estimated to employ thousands of Nigerians.
South Africa, analysts believe, is heading to becoming an international pariah status if their xenophobic tendencies are not curtailed. Already, the African Union has condemned the acts, and some African countries, including Nigeria, are set to boycott the World Economic Summit due in the country.
