MTN Nigeria Executives, Including CEO Karl Toriola, to Face Legal Charges Over Regulatory and Copyright Issues Summary of the Allegations The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) will arraign Karl Toriola, CEO of MTN Nigeria Communications Plc, along with other senior executives, for allegedly failing to comply with lawful summons. The arraignment is scheduled for May 28 at the Federal High Court in Abuja. In a separate case, the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has also filed charges against MTN Nigeria, Toriola, Senior Executive Officer Nkeakam Abhulimen, Fun Mobile Ltd, and its CEO, Yahaya Maibe. The charges involve copyright infringement of musical works by artist Maleke Moye. Details of the FCCPC Charges The FCCPC’s charges focus on MTN Nigeria and its executives’ alleged failure to produce required documents and information. According to the charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/354/2024, the defendants include: The charges, filed by a legal team led by Akoji Achimugu on July 22, 2024, highlight a violation of the FCCPC Act, with the case handled by Justice H.J. Yilwa. NCC’s Copyright Infringement Case Separately, the NCC alleges that between 2010 and 2017, the defendants sold and distributed copyrighted musical works by Maleke Moye without permission. These works were used as “caller ring back tunes” without the artist’s authorization. Infringed Songs Include: The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/111/2024, is before Justice Inyang Ekwo, with the next hearing scheduled for May 15. The alleged offences are punishable under Section 20 (2) (a), (b), and (c) of the Copyright Act, Cap. C28, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. Court Proceedings and Legal Developments During a previous session, Justice Yilwa questioned the absence of the defendants. FCCPC’s lawyer, Chizenum Nsitem, explained the need for additional time to review the case file, leading to an adjournment until May 28. In the copyright case, the Attorney-General of the Federation has expressed interest in taking over, signaling the seriousness of the charges. Potential Impact on MTN Nigeria These legal challenges could significantly impact MTN Nigeria’s reputation and operations. Compliance with FCCPC regulations and copyright laws is crucial for maintaining corporate integrity and avoiding legal repercussions. For more insights into the role of the FCCPC in Nigeria, visit the official FCCPC website. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
Tinubu orders the North’s power to be restored quickly during the blackout. Adebayo Adelabu, the Minister of Power, and other pertinent agencies were instructed by President Bola Tinubu on Monday to expedite efforts to restore energy to all of the Northern states that were impacted. Additionally, he issued a warning that intentional destruction and sabotage of public facilities will no longer be tolerated by the government. The decision was given by Tinubu at a Monday meeting with Adelabu, who also informed him of the Transmission Company of Nigeria’s efforts to fix the damaged Shiroro-Kaduna transmission lines at the Aso Rock Villa. READ ALSO Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, said in a statement released Monday night that “the President directed a long-term solution to the problem.” “President Tinubu expressed concern over the blackout in the north, directs speedy restoration of electricity,” said the statement. In the last week, 17 northern states had a widespread power outage that left millions without energy and forced them to endure a protracted blackout. The vital Shiroro-Kaduna transmission line, a vital conduit delivering electricity to the north, was damaged by vandals, who were held accountable by authorities. After the meeting on Monday, Adelabu informed reporters that the maintenance crew’s security concerns have made repairs difficult. Related News Blackout: FG assures band of outage compensation Tinubu, a user, directs security steps to ensure that electricity is restored quickly in the NorthTinubu’s daughter was appointed Almajiri’s ambassador.However, Tinubu voiced worries over the blackout that occurred in northern Nigeria last week. “He is is taking the lead in attempts to put an end to the disturbance that has halted social and commercial activity, calling in National Security Advisor Nuhu Ribadu and Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu. “The President has instructed the Power Minister and pertinent agencies to expedite efforts to restore electricity to all Northern states that have been impacted.” “The reports of deliberate destruction and vandalism of power infrastructure and other public assets that led to the regrettable blackout sadden President Tinubu,” Onanuga stated. Tinubu urged TCN engineers to persevere in providing prompt assistance to those who require power to support their social and economic endeavors. YOU MAY ALSO LIKE THIS According to the Presidency, Tinubu also “directed the National Security Adviser to ensure that restoration work continues unhindered.” In order to secure the engineers repairing the damaged transmission line, coordinate with the Army and Air Force to send enough security personnel, including aerial cover. In order to save infrastructure and public assets, he also pleaded with community leaders, traditional rulers, and other intellectual elites to cooperate with security forces.
