The Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) has issued an urgent warning about a potential network blackout in Lagos and Ogun States, citing a critical diesel shortage caused by an indefinite strike by the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD). The strike, a result of ongoing harassment by police officers in Lagos State, has brought fuel supply operations to a standstill, disrupting the movement of essential diesel for telecom base stations.
ATCON President, Mr. Tony Emoekpere, expressed serious concerns, noting that many telecom base stations are facing imminent shutdowns as their fuel reserves dwindle. This poses a grave threat to millions of mobile and internet users in the region.
“The ongoing strike has effectively halted all truck loading and fuel movement operations, severely disrupting the diesel supply to critical telecom infrastructure,” Emoekpere explained. “If the situation isn’t addressed promptly, we risk a total network collapse.”
He emphasized the potential far-reaching consequences, including disruption to mobile and internet services, business operations, emergency response systems, and vital daily communications.
In response, ATCON is calling on the Governors of Lagos and Ogun States to intervene immediately, facilitating the release of diesel supplies to telecom operators. The association stressed that this issue goes beyond the telecom industry, warning that a prolonged disruption could cripple the economy and compromise public safety.
Emoekpere further urged security agencies and petroleum unions to act swiftly to resolve the crisis and ensure the stability of Nigeria’s telecommunications and economy.
