The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has issued a stern warning to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) over its planned shutdown of telecom services on March 1, 2025, in protest against the recent 50% tariff hike.
In response, the NSCDC has deployed operatives to protect critical telecom infrastructure, including base stations, to prevent disruptions.
NSCDC spokesperson Babawale Afolabi emphasized that any disruption of telecom services could compromise national security, expose the country to criminal activities, and hinder public safety.
“The commandant-general has ordered round-the-clock surveillance at telecom facilities nationwide, with intelligence operatives on high alert to prevent any unlawful action,” he stated.
Citing past protests that escalated into violence, the NSCDC warned that miscreants could hijack the demonstrations to engage in vandalism and looting.
The NLC, led by Joe Ajaero, insists that the tariff hike is unjustified and was implemented before the conclusion of a 10-man review panel’s deliberations.
The NLC directed Nigerians to boycott telecom services from February 13 to February 29, between 11 AM and 2 PM daily, and threatened to shut down telecom infrastructure if the tariff increase is not reversed by March 1.
Despite the NSCDC’s warning, Lagos State NLC Chairperson Funmi Sessi rejected any attempts to intimidate workers.
“No one can threaten us! If necessary, we will shut down electricity itself. Who are they to tell us otherwise?” she declared.
Telecom Operators and Industry Unions Push Back
The Private Telecommunications and Communications Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PTECSSAN) and the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) have both criticized the NLC’s planned shutdown.
- PTECSSAN Secretary-General, Abdullahi Okonu, stated that the tariff hike is necessary to keep the telecom industry afloat, citing rising operational costs due to fuel subsidy removal.
- ATCON President, Tony Emoekpere, argued that the move is misguided and could harm the economy, adding that no formal engagement had taken place with telecom operators.
With tensions escalating, the NSCDC has placed its officers on high alert, vowing to protect critical telecom infrastructure and take decisive legal action against any unlawful disruptions.
Meanwhile, the NLC remains adamant, insisting that the protest will go ahead unless the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) reverses the tariff hike.
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