Kaduna intervenes in electricity workers’ strike, seeks quick resolution

The Kaduna government has appealed to the Kaduna Electric Distribution Company (KAEDCO) and striking workers to resolve their dispute and restore electricity to the state.

Hadiza Balarabe, deputy governor of Kaduna, made the appeal on Thursday during a meeting with KAEDCO management and leaders of the NUEE at the state government house.

On January 3, the Kaduna state council of the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) embarked on an indefinite strike, protesting the alleged dismissal of 900 staff members from the distribution company.

But in a statement on January 4, Abdulhazeez Abdullahi, KAEDCO spokesperson, clarified that, contrary to reports, only 450 employees were affected by the downsizing.

Abdullahi said the decision to reduce the workforce was driven by significant operational and financial challenges that had hindered the company’s ability to meet its market and operational obligations.

Addressing the issue at the meeting, Balarabe expressed concern over the prolonged power outage, which has lasted three days, saying it has severely impacted homes, and businesses in the state.

“The lack of power supply has badly affected homes, businesses, with attendant security implications,” the deputy governor said.

She urged the company’s management and workers to maintain regular dialogue even after the current dispute is settled.

Speaking at the meeting, Wisdom Nwachukwu, NUEE’s national vice-president (distribution), said the union was not against the downsizing of workers but insisted that proper procedures must be followed — including the full payment of entitlements to affected employees.

He assured that the union’s leadership would communicate the government’s appeal to NUEE’s national secretariat, expressing optimism that the issue would be resolved soon.

On his part, Umar Hashidu, managing director of KAEDCO, defended the decision to sack 444 workers, saying it was necessary for the company’s efficiency and financial sustainability.

“The company will be unable to meet basic obligations like payment of salaries and may ultimately fold up if action was not taken by the management,” Hashidu said.

He said both parties would engage in another round of discussions with a third party and assured that the issue would be resolved soon.