Nigerian Governors Insists MTN must pay N1.4trn fine

The Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) says the MTN must pay the $5.2 billion (N1.4 trillion) fine slammed on it by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for failing to disconnect subscribers with unregistered SIM cards bought before January 2012.

The governors who met at the Old Banquet Hall of the Aso Rock Presidential Villa in Abuja late Wednesday night threw their weight behind the NCC.

They also lauded the NCC for its strict compliance and enforcement of the law regulating the telecommunication sector.

NGF Chairman and Zamfara State Governor Abdul'aziz Yari told journalists after the meeting that the forum received a comprehensive brief on the development from the NCC Acting Executive Vice Chairman Professor Umar Garba Danbatta.

Yari said the governors' forum assured Danbatta of collaboration with a view to strengthening the nation's telecommunication industry.

"The forum also commended the NCC for its strict compliance and enforcement of the law with regards to the fine issued to MTN and advised the Federal Government to ensure prompt and full payment", Yari stated.

 

He said the NGF also resolved to meet with stakeholders to articulate a robust strategy aimed at addressing issues affecting the economy of the country.