The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed operatives to telecommunication base stations across the country to prevent any disruption to services, following the Nigeria Labour Congress’ (NLC) threat to shut down telecom operations on March 1.
The NLC had announced its intention to shut down telecom operations if the recent 50% tariff hike was not reversed by the end of February.
However, the NSCDC has warned that any disruption to telecom services could pose a risk to national security and public safety.
In a statement, NSCDC spokesman Babawale Afolabi said the agency had directed state commandants to maintain round-the-clock surveillance at telecom facilities, with a nationwide deployment of officers, including undercover operatives.
“The NSCDC is committed to safeguarding the lives of Nigerians and property of the government and corporate organizations. We are ready to take decisive actions against any individual or group that embarks on any action that can jeopardize the security architecture of the country,” Afolabi said.
The Private Telecommunications and Communications Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PTECSSAN) and the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) have also criticized the NLC’s planned protest.
PTECSSAN Secretary-General Abdullahi Okonu said the union had already made its position clear, arguing that the increase is necessary to prevent a collapse of the industry.
“The removal of fuel subsidy and the subsequent surge in petroleum prices have significantly increased the cost of maintaining telecom base stations across the country. The tariff increase is unavoidable if we want to keep the industry afloat,” Okonu said.
ATCON President Tony Emoekpere also urged the labour unions to suspend its planned rally, pointing out that there had been no formal engagements or discussions with the telecom operators before the union’s decision.
The NSCDC has called for dialogue to resolve the dispute and has placed its personnel on high alert to deal with any illegal activities during the protest.