The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Labour and Employment, has given the management of the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) and its outsourcing firm a seven-day deadline to renegotiate the recent mass dismissal of 3,000 workers.
Oyo State Comptroller of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Mr. Festus Igbinosun, issued the directive following a high-level meeting involving IBEDC executives, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the outsourcing firm, and representatives of the affected employees.
Igbinosun underscored the urgency of resolving the dispute, highlighting the impact on both the dismissed workers and their families.
“This mass dismissal not only affects the employees but also the families that rely on them. We must recognize the human element in this situation,” he stated.
He stressed that a swift resolution would help restore livelihoods and maintain industrial harmony, urging IBEDC and the outsourcing firm to engage in “meaningful discussions” with an open mind.
Chairman of the NLC Oyo State Council, Kayode Martins, criticized the company’s handling of the layoffs, stating that due process was not followed.
“We urge IBEDC and the outsourcing firm to act responsibly and reinstate these workers during negotiations. Their lives depend on these jobs,” Martins said.
In response to the ultimatum, IBEDC and the outsourcing firm signaled their willingness to engage in talks, raising hopes for a possible resolution.
Comments