WATCH THE VIDEO HERE The management of Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company (KADECO) has clarified that only 450 staff members, not the reported 900, were disengaged from its service amid a continued strike that has left its franchise state in darkness. The industrial action, which began on Monday, was initiated by the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) in response to the alleged mass layoff and other grievances, including non-payment of pensions and inadequate work conditions. The aggrieved union had claimed that 900 of its members were affected by the action of the company. Business Post earlier reported that workers blocked the entrance to Kaduna Electric’s headquarters, halting operations and leaving residents without power. NUEE officials have expressed strong opposition to the management’s actions, labeling the planned layoffs as “unacceptable” and emphasising that they will continue their protest until their demands are met. The management’s letter, dated January 31, 2025, indicated that affected workers were to return company property and would receive their severance packages in due course. Responding to these allegations, Kaduna Electric said the restructuring, though difficult, was a necessary step to align the company with current market realities and create a more efficient workforce. The company also said its management has initiated a comprehensive transformation exercise to ensure the company’s long-term sustainability. “Contrary to claims by labour unions that 900 staff members were affected, the company confirms that “services no longer required” letters were issued to 450 employees. “This decision was made in response to significant operational and financial challenges that have hindered the company’s ability to meet its market & operational obligations,” the energy firm explained. It emphasised that this right-sizing initiative alongside capital investment are crucial for implementing impactful measures to improve operations and ensure sustainability. The company expressed regret over the prolonged power outage caused by the industrial action, which lasted over 24 hours to some of the customers across its franchise, and restated its commitment to resolving labor disputes amicably and restoring normal operations as quickly as possible. “The management also thanked security agencies for their support during the industrial action, ensuring the safety of personnel and facilities during this challenging period,” it noted, reassuring its customers of its dedication to providing reliable power supply and apologised for the inconvenience caused by the outage. “The company remains focused on overcoming its current challenges and emerging stronger to better serve its customers and stakeholders,” it said.
We Sacked Only 450 Workers, Not 900—Kaduna Electric
