NSCDC Warns NLC Against Planned Telecom Shutdown Over Tariff Hike
By DAYO ADESULU
Security Concerns Rise as Labour Union Threatens to Disrupt Telecom Services
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has issued a stern warning to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) over its planned nationwide shutdown of telecommunication services on March 1, in protest against the recent 50% tariff hike.
The NSCDC, alongside the Private Telecommunications and Communications Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PTECSSAN) and the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), has pushed back against the planned disruption, citing potential national security risks and economic consequences.
NSCDC Deploys Operatives to Secure Telecom Infrastructure
Speaking with The PUNCH on Sunday, NSCDC spokesperson Babawale Afolabi confirmed that security operatives have been deployed to telecom base stations nationwide to prevent any illegal interference.
“The commandant-general has directed state commandants to maintain round-the-clock surveillance in and around all telecom masts. We have also deployed undercover and intelligence operatives to protect critical national assets,” Afolabi stated.
The agency warned that the NLC’s planned shutdown could compromise security, disrupt essential communications, and provide opportunities for criminal activities, urging the union to reconsider its stance.
NLC’s Stand: Protest Against Tariff Hike
The NLC, in a communiqué signed by its President Joe Ajaero and General Secretary Emma Ugboaja, accused telecom operators of implementing the tariff hike before the conclusion of a scheduled review panel’s deliberations.
As part of its protest, the NLC directed Nigerians to boycott the services of major telecom providers—including MTN, Airtel, and Glo—daily between 11 AM and 2 PM starting February 13 and continuing through the month. If the tariff increase is not reversed, the union has vowed to escalate its actions, culminating in a complete shutdown on March 1.
Telecom Industry Leaders Oppose Planned Shutdown
Industry stakeholders have strongly opposed the NLC’s planned action, arguing that the increase in tariffs is necessary to sustain operations amid rising costs.
- PTECSSAN’s Response: Secretary-General Abdullahi Okonu criticized the NLC for not consulting telecom workers before taking its decision.
- “The Congress Leadership has acted in error. Consulting with us would have led to a more informed decision,” he stated.
- The union acknowledged consumer concerns but emphasized that the hike is unavoidable due to increased operational costs, including the impact of fuel subsidy removal.
- ATCON’s Response: The Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria also opposed the planned boycott, highlighting the lack of formal engagement between the union and telecom operators before the decision.
- ATCON President Tony Emoekpere warned that shutting down telecom infrastructure could have severe repercussions for businesses, emergency services, and national security.
NSCDC Warns Against Possible Violence
The NSCDC expressed concerns that the planned protest could be hijacked by hoodlums, leading to vandalism and security breaches.
“The scars of previous protests that turned violent are still visible. We will not allow miscreants to exploit this situation,” Afolabi warned.
While acknowledging the NLC’s right to peaceful protest, the NSCDC urged labour leaders to explore dialogue as a more effective means of resolving the dispute. The corps also reiterated its commitment to taking legal action against anyone attempting to disrupt telecom operations.
Conclusion: Call for Dialogue
As tensions rise, security agencies and industry leaders are calling for constructive dialogue to resolve the tariff dispute without disrupting critical telecom services.
The NLC has yet to respond to the security concerns raised by the NSCDC and telecom industry leaders.
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