Why MTN is taking Central Bank and Attorney General of the Federation to court
In a most recent development on the CBN & AGF vs. MTN issue, the telecommunication company has filed for an injunction with the Federal High Court, in Lagos.
Stating why the company decided to seek legal action, a statement released by the company and attributed to Tobe Okigbo, Corporate Relations Executive, MTN Nigeria, read:
“The allegations being made involve issues that appear to be complex and so are easily misunderstood and misinterpreted. They are made even more confusing when the relevant authorities send conflicting messages and instructions and act in a way that appears un-coordinated and at cross purposes.
“The simple reality is that MTN Nigeria has never repatriated dividends on the CCIs referenced by the CBN and that MTN is fully compliant with Nigerian tax law.
“With situations like this, it is vital for both the government, regulators and the company to have absolute clarity on the nature of both the allegations being made and the processes that are being followed. In the absence of this clarity, our only option is to seek judicial intervention and to ask the courts to act as adjudicator. This has been done today.”
While we wait patiently to see the outcome of all corporate drama, one cannot help but begin to question the allegations, the lack of clarity, the ensuing actions and motives behind them.
MTN says it remains fully committed to Nigeria and remains resolute that the company has not committed any offences and will continue to defend its position vigorously.
The company has stated that it will continue engaging with the relevant authorities, and further information will be provided as and when available.
