Telecom Workers Embark on Indefinite Strike Over Welfare, Demand Immediate Action

Samuel Mobolaji

The Private Telecommunications and Communications Senior Staff Association (PTECSSAN) has today (Monday) started an indefinite strike This strike affects field workers in the telecoms sector due to prolonged negotiations and unresolved issues impacting workers’ welfare and rights.

PTECSSAN is calling for reinstating three unfairly dismissed union members: Sotola Kolawole, Ulu Christopher, and Alex Franklin. The union also demands the acknowledgement of employees’ inherent rights to associate with their Union freely and the enhancement of workplace conditions.

The union also seeks prompt remittance of membership dues, acknowledgement of workers’ years of service, and adherence to international standards for leave, health insurance, and pension deductions.

This was disclosed in a statement by the General Secretary of PTECSSAN, Comrade Abdullahi Okonu; “The strike involves Field Maintenance Engineers, Transmission Engineers, Customer Service Engineers, Fibre Engineers, and other critical roles, potentially disrupting telecom services nationwide. PTECSSAN urged employers to address the pressing issues within the seven-day notice period to avert the disruption.

“We have made every effort to engage with employers, but our legitimate demands have been disregarded,” said Comrade Okonu.

“This strike is a last resort to protect our members’ rights and well-being. We urge the public to understand our position and support our struggle for fair treatment.”

The strike’s impact on customers and the telecom sector’s long-term consequences remains uncertain. PTECSSAN assures that it will engage with employers and the government to resolve the issues, but the strike will continue until their demands are met.