Former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, has urged the Nigerian government to push for full Nigerian ownership of telecom giant MTN Group following recurring xenophobic attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa.
Speaking during an interview on Arise News, Oshiomhole argued that no foreign investment should be valued above the safety and lives of Nigerian citizens. According to him, the Federal Government should take steps to end South African majority control of MTN and allow Nigerians to fully take over the company.
The senator acknowledged that MTN is already listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange and that many Nigerians currently own shares in the company. However, he insisted that the South African influence and control over the telecom company should be removed completely.
Oshiomhole stated that the company could be restructured in a way that gives Nigerians total ownership while also preventing profits from being transferred back to South Africa.
He linked his position to the repeated xenophobic violence against Nigerians and other African nationals in South Africa, saying the attacks have gone on for too long without serious action.
The lawmaker also referenced comments allegedly made during the campaign period of South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, claiming foreigners were accused of taking jobs meant for South Africans. According to Oshiomhole, South Africa’s unemployment crisis has fueled anger among some citizens, with immigrants becoming targets of frustration.
He stressed that Nigeria must prioritize the protection of its citizens over preserving foreign business relationships, adding that human lives should always come before economic interests.
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