ATCON Raises Red Alert Over Looming Telecom Shutdown Amid Fuel Scarcity

ATCON Raises Red Alert Over Looming Telecom Shutdown Amid Fuel Scarcity

The Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) has issued an urgent warning about a looming network shutdown in Lagos and Ogun States due to a worsening diesel supply crisis…….READ MORE 

According to Ireporteronline, the crisis stems from an indefinite strike by the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD), a division of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), which has severely disrupted fuel distribution.

ATCON President Tony Emoekpere expressed deep concern over the situation, emphasizing that many telecom base stations are at risk of shutting down as fuel supplies dwindle.

He explained that the strike is a result of persistent harassment of petroleum tanker drivers by security operatives in Lagos State, which has halted fuel loading and movement across major depots.

The impact of a telecom blackout could be devastating, affecting:

• Mobile and internet connectivity
• Business and financial transactions
• Emergency communication services
• Essential daily communications

ATCON has urged the Governors of Lagos and Ogun States to intervene immediately by ensuring the release of diesel from depots to telecom operators to prevent a full-scale network collapse.

“This is beyond a telecom issue—it is a national emergency that could disrupt economic activities and compromise public safety,” Emoekpere stressed.

The association is also calling on security agencies and petroleum unions to swiftly resolve the dispute to safeguard Nigeria’s connectivity and economic stability.