How Timi Agbaje Led Prosecution at MTN’s Data on Trial as Nigerians Question Data Transparency
Nigeria has continued to discuss the Data on Trial event held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, where lawyer Timi Agbaje headed the prosecution team during a session focused on public concerns about data usage and transparency in the telecommunications sector, particularly involving MTN Nigeria.
Presenting the opening argument, Agbaje said the case was brought on behalf of Nigerians who have experienced unexplained data depletion after purchasing data bundles “on behalf of every Nigerian that has ever bought data, watched it disappear, and been told nothing,” He argued that although network operators often attribute the issue to background apps and other technical factors, many users remain dissatisfied with those explanations.
One of the major issues raised was the need for an independent and easy-to-use system that allows subscribers to monitor and confirm their data usage in real time instead of depending only on reports provided by network operators. The team said its goal was to promote transparency, accountability, and better technical understanding rather than criticise the telecom industry.
Responding to the concerns, Yahaya Ibrahim, MTN Nigeria’s chief technical officer, explained how mobile network technology has developed in the country from the 1G era to the current 5G generation. He said every advancement has improved network capacity and influenced the way people consume data.
Michael Ndukwe, general manager of network performance and quality assurance at MTN Nigeria, also cited figures from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). He said Nigerians consumed about 13.2 million terabytes of data in 2025, while usage reached approximately 4.06 million terabytes in the first quarter of 2026. He added that if the current trend continues, total consumption could rise to around 60 million terabytes before the end of the year.
He attributed the increase in data usage to the wider rollout of 4G and 5G services, growing smartphone ownership, increased use of smart devices, and the continued expansion of social media activities nationwide.
The event ended with participants calling for ongoing engagement among consumers, regulators, and telecom operators as demand for digital services and data usage continues to grow in Nigeria
