ATCON warns of network collapse over diesel shortage
The Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) has raised an urgent alarm over a looming network blackout in Lagos and Ogun States due to a diesel supply crisis caused by an indefinite strike by the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD), a branch of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG).
ATCON President, Mr. Tony Emoekpere, warned that the ongoing fuel supply disruption is pushing many telecom base stations to the brink of shutdown, posing a serious risk to millions of mobile and internet users in the region.
Emoekpere explained: “This strike, which stems from the persistent harassment of tanker and petroleum product drivers by police officers in Lagos State, has effectively halted all truck loading operations and fuel movements.
“As a result, diesel supply to telecom infrastructure has been severely impacted, leaving critical sites running dangerously low on fuel.”
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He cautioned that if urgent action is not taken, the situation could escalate into a full-blown network blackout, disrupting:
Mobile and internet services
Business operations
Emergency response systems
ATCON is appealing to the Governors of Lagos and Ogun States to intervene immediately by facilitating the release of diesel from depots to telecom operators.
“This is not just a telecom issue, it is a national emergency that could cripple economic activities and compromise public safety,” Emoekpere stressed.
The association also urged security agencies and petroleum unions to resolve the crisis swiftly to safeguard Nigeria’s connectivity and economic stability.
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