By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh
Kogi State government has resolved its long-standing face-off with MTN Nigeria.
To this end the government convened a high-level discussion with representatives from MTN Nigeria, focusing on the need to resolve longstanding discrepancies concerning tax remittance and operational protocols in the state.
The meeting was convened at the instance of the State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo who was represented by his Deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu, at the Mini Banquet Hall of the Government House in Lokoja.
In a statement by the Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor Mr Unubi Emmanuel, the engagement was well-attended by top government officials and stakeholders, including Hilary Ojoma Egwudah, Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor; Alhaji Sule Salihu Enehe, Executive Chairman of the Kogi State Internal Revenue Service (KGIRS); Alhaji Taofik Isah, Director General of the Kogi State Utility, Infrastructure Management and Compliance Agency (KUIMCA); representative of MTN Nigeria; and the Executive Commissioner for Technical Services at the Nigeria Communication Commission (NCC), among others.
In his remarks shortly after the closed-door session, Governor Ododo commended MTN Nigeria for its adherence to operational protocols and tax remittances over time, affirming that the recent minor disagreement with the company, while regrettable, is a common occurrence in any relationship.
He expressed sorrow over the consequences that led to communication disruptions and business losses for the citizens of the state.
The governor praised MTN Nigeria, KGIRS, KUIMCA, and other critical stakeholders for reaching a consensus on the matter, commending the Nigeria Communication Commission (NCC) for its role as a competent mediator in the protracted situation.
He emphasized that Kogi State remains an open and safe environment for investment, assuring that the government will continue to foster a conducive atmosphere for businesses to flourish. He urged network service providers operating within the state to continue adhering to the established rules and regulations enshrined in the relevant state laws.
Earlier, Engr. Abraham Oshadami, the Executive Commissioner for Technical Services at the Nigeria Communication Commission (NCC), briefed the governor on the resolutions reached by the committee established to address the prolonged impasse between the state government and MTN.
He noted that both parties have shown willingness to compromise and have agreed to resolve the issues in the best interest of the people.
He further emphasized that a mutually acceptable outstanding debt owed by MTN has been agreed upon for payment, and other legal proceedings initiated by both parties will be withdrawn in favor of alternative dispute resolution, expressing gratitude to the governor for his business-friendly policies.
The resolutions of the meeting, held behind closed doors, when duely implemented will put to rest all questions on the deteriorating relationship between the government and MTN Nigeria and its negative effects on the residents of Kogi State.
