Workers of the Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company (KADECO) have commenced an indefinite strike in protest against an alleged plan by the management to lay off over 900 employees, among other grievances.
On Monday, the aggrieved workers, under the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE), staged a demonstration at the corporate headquarters of KADECO, carrying placards with various inscriptions. They also blocked the entrance, preventing customers from accessing the premises.
Speaking on behalf of the union, the North-West Zonal Organising Secretary of NUEE, Barde, outlined several concerns raised by the workers. These include the company’s alleged failure to provide exit benefits to employees who resigned or retired over the past five years, non-payment of outstanding pensions for retirees, non-implementation of the national minimum wage, lack of promotions for deserving staff, and inadequate provision of essential work tools.
Barde condemned the management’s decision to terminate 900 employees, stating that the union would strongly resist the move.
In response, a letter from KADECO’s management, signed by Deputy Managing Director Abubakar Mohammed and dated January 31, 2025, directed the affected workers to hand over company property to the Human Resources Department immediately. The letter also informed the workers that their services were no longer required, effective January 31, 2025, while assuring them that arrangements for their severance packages were underway.
The strike has heightened tensions between KADECO’s management and its workforce, with no immediate resolution in sight.
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