The Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria has cautioned that telecom services across the country could face widespread disruptions following the blockade of diesel depots by petroleum products unions.

In a statement on Thursday, ALTON chairman, Gbenga Adebayo, said the group had received credible reports that members of the Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers and the Natural Oil and Gas Suppliers Association of Nigeria were obstructing access to diesel depots in Kaduna, Lagos, and Delta states.

He explained that the blockade has halted diesel supply to thousands of telecommunications sites run by IHS Towers, a major telecom infrastructure provider and ALTON member.

The action is reportedly in protest over ongoing investigations into allegations of diesel misappropriation levelled by IHS against two companies affiliated with NOGASA.

ALTON warned that the blockade endangers more than 16,000 telecom sites nationwide, which provide mobile and internet connectivity and support vital sectors including banking, emergency services, and national security.

“While ALTON does not interfere in disputes between its members and third parties, we are gravely concerned about the wider implications of this action on national infrastructure and public safety.

“Telecom infrastructure is officially classified as Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) under Nigerian law.

“Any disruption to its operation constitutes a serious threat to national security and economic stability and will attract strict legal consequences,” Adebayo said.

The association urged the leadership of NUPENG and NOGASA to rein in their members and address the dispute through lawful means.

“We trust that NUPENG and NOGASA will continue to uphold the values of supporting national development without jeopardizing essential services,” Adebayo added.

The telecoms body further called on the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Nigerian Communications Commission , and other relevant authorities to act swiftly to prevent an impending communications blackout.