Hundreds of Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company (KADECO) employees have taken a stand against what they perceive as unfair treatment by the management, initiating an indefinite strike. The workers are up in arms over the alleged plan to terminate the employment of over 900 colleagues, among other grievances.
The discontent among the workforce stems from a variety of issues, including the non-payment of outstanding pensions to retirees, a lack of essential work tools, stagnant promotions for deserving employees, and the failure to implement the 2024 National Minimum Wage. Additionally, concerns were raised about the absence of death benefits for deceased staff members’ families, improper placement of deserving employees, non-payment of electricity rebates, and a lack of recognition for long-serving staff.
In a letter dated January 31, 2025, the management of Kaduna Electric informed the affected workers that their services were no longer required, instructing them to return company property and hinting at forthcoming severance packages. This move sparked outrage among the workforce, prompting a demonstration at the company’s headquarters.
The striking employees, supported by the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE), blocked the entrance to the corporate office, preventing both staff and customers from entering the premises. Amid chants and placards bearing messages of defiance, the workers voiced their grievances against what they perceived as high-handedness and a blatant disregard for established industrial agreements by the management.
Comrade Sheyin Nuhu Wakili, Chairman of NUEE’s Kaduna State Council, expressed the union’s stance on the matter, highlighting key concerns such as the lack of exit benefits for employees who resigned or retired half a decade ago, as well as the proposed mass layoffs. He emphasized the need to resist such actions, citing the unjust termination of ten senior staff members without adherence to the company’s conditions of service.
Despite previous interventions and agreements reached in discussions with management, the workers felt that their concerns had not been adequately addressed, leading to the distressing revelation of further terminations affecting a significant portion of the workforce. The union vowed to continue its fight to protect the rights and interests of its members, advocating for fair treatment and just labor practices within the company.
Renewal of Musical Copyright Society Nigeria’s License by NCC
The strike at KADECO comes amidst other notable developments in the Nigerian business landscape, including the renewal of the license for the Musical Copyright Society Nigeria (MCSN) by the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC). The move signifies a positive step towards supporting intellectual property rights in the country’s music industry, allowing for continued protection of artists’ creative works and ensuring fair compensation for their contributions. Community Outcry in Osun Over Governor-Appointed Monarch
In a separate incident, residents of Osun state have expressed outrage over the appointment of a monarch by the governor, resulting in clashes and reports of casualties. The situation underscores the delicate balance between traditional governance and public sentiment, highlighting the need for transparent and inclusive decision-making processes in matters of local leadership.
In a separate incident, residents of Osun state have expressed outrage over the appointment of a monarch by the governor, resulting in clashes and reports of casualties. The situation underscores the delicate balance between traditional governance and public sentiment, highlighting the need for transparent and inclusive decision-making processes in matters of local leadership.
As the situation unfolds in Kaduna and beyond, the voices of workers, artists, and community members continue to shape the narrative of labor rights, intellectual property, and governance in Nigeria. The challenges faced by employees at KADECO serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for fair treatment and respect in the workplace, resonating with individuals across various sectors and communities. In the pursuit of justice and equity, these collective voices amplify the call for accountability, transparency, and dignity in all aspects of society.
