MTN Ghana CEO Responds to Data Depletion Concerns Amid Subscriber Complaints

In a statement issued on April 2, 2025, MTN Ghana’s Chief Executive Officer, Stephen Blewett, addressed growing concerns over rapid data depletion and allegations of data theft, following an increase in subscriber complaints. 

Speaking at MTN House in Accra, Blewett denied any malicious intent behind the depletion of customer data, stressing that such actions would be counterproductive. “We have no reason to want to steal your data. My bonus is determined by the revenue. If I steal your data, I can’t declare it. I will never get a bonus,” he stated.

Blewett explained that the increased network performance, particularly with the transition to 5G, may be causing higher data consumption due to activities like video streaming, which now require more data for higher resolution content.

This clarification comes amid growing frustration from MTN subscribers in both Ghana and Nigeria, many of whom have reported unexplained data depletion. 

In Nigeria, numerous customers have petitioned the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) for an investigation into the issue. 

The complaints surged following a 50 percent hike in data and call tariffs in February, with many users voicing their concerns over the dual impact of rising costs and rapid data consumption.

Telecom operators have pointed to the increased data usage driven by the adoption of 5G networks and the growing prevalence of video streaming and digital activities as the primary reasons behind the higher data consumption.

With subscriber dissatisfaction on the rise, both the NCC and FCCPC may be prompted to step in to ensure transparency and address public concerns about data consumption practices in the telecom sector.