How is it possible for MTN to give my prepaid nr away after 8 years of constant use?

Hi

Maybe someone can help me as MTN cannot or would not. I’ve got a prepaid phone that is or was my only contact nr for more than 8 years. I used that nr daily. Suddenly 2 days ago it stops working and give me an error. I went to a MTN store and after a day of no joy they informed me my number is now under a business contract and they can’t help me. I must contact that business and sort it out with them. Calls to 808 resulted in the same answer. It feels like my life is gone - I can’t even make payments as I cannot receive smsses from my bank to approve them. Any ideas?

Herman