In a developing labor dispute, the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the management of Kaduna Electric, demanding a return to negotiations over the recent termination of 450 staff members. Failure to address these concerns may result in widespread power outages across Kaduna, Kebbi, Zamfara, and Sokoto states, potentially disrupting daily life and economic activities.
The conflict intensified when Kaduna Electric issued “service no longer required” letters to the affected employees, a move that has been met with strong opposition from the union. NUEE’s Zonal Organising Secretary for the North West, Ayuba Pukat criticized the management for proceeding with the terminations despite ongoing discussions aimed at resolving the issues amicably.
In response to the union’s claims, Abdulazeez Abdullahi, the company’s Head of Corporate Communication, clarified that 450 employees were disengaged, contrary to reports suggesting that 900 workers were affected.
The Kaduna State Government has previously intervened in similar disputes to prevent disruptions in power supply. Deputy Governor Hadiza Balarabe recently urged both parties to resolve their differences to avoid plunging the state into darkness.
As the ultimatum deadline approaches, stakeholders, including government officials and consumer rights groups, are closely monitoring the situation. The potential for another round of power outages looms large, underscoring the critical need for a swift and amicable resolution to the labor dispute.
