In a dramatic turn of events, the Oyo State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has effectively paralysed the operations of the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) following the abrupt termination of over 3,000 employees. The protest, which erupted on Tuesday, saw union members vehemently opposing what they describe as unjust and inhumane treatment of workers.
Leading the charge, NLC Chairman Kayode Martin, alongside a throng of aggrieved union members, barricaded the main entrance of IBEDC’s headquarters. The demonstration not only halted the company’s activities but also caused significant traffic disruptions along the bustling Challenge to Dugbe axis of Ibadan.
Chanting solidarity songs and brandishing placards, the protesters demanded the immediate reinstatement of the dismissed workers and the enforcement of the national minimum wage. Martin did not mince words as he lambasted IBEDC and its associated outsourcing agents for their exploitative practices.
“We are here today to express our total displeasure over the unjust and inhumane treatment of workers by IBEDC and their outsourcing agents,” Martin declared. “Over 3,000 workers have been thrown into the unemployment market without any justifiable reason. These are people who have dedicated their time and energy to this company, and they are now being treated like disposable items.”
The NLC’s grievances extend beyond the mass layoffs. Martin highlighted issues of unpaid minimum wages and arbitrary salary deductions, accusing the outsourcing agents of blatant exploitation.
“These outsourcing agents are not only refusing to pay the minimum wage, but they are also making arbitrary deductions from the meagre salaries of the workers. This is unacceptable, and we will not stand for it,” he asserted.
In a bid to rectify the situation, the union has presented a seven-point demand to IBEDC’s management. The demands encompass the implementation of the new minimum wage, prompt payment of Retirement Savings Account (RSA) backlogs, regularization of outsourced staff, cessation of union membership denial, provision of adequate healthcare services, and the settlement of all outstanding allowances and compensations.
The NLC has also called upon Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, and other pertinent stakeholders to intervene, warning of potential security ramifications if the issue remains unresolved.
“We are calling on Governor Makinde and other well-meaning Nigerians to come to our aid. The rate of unemployment in the country is already alarming, and further adding to it will only create more problems, including security challenges,” Martin cautioned.
Despite the mounting pressure, IBEDC’s management has remained largely silent. However, in a recent press release, the company addressed related concerns, particularly regarding staff welfare and the role of outsourcing agents. The statement emphasized IBEDC’s commitment to service excellence and staff welfare, urging stakeholders to disregard reports of a strike. It clarified that the recent picketing was organized by the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) over the alleged unjust exit of certain staff members. The company maintained that the affected staff were dismissed due to consistent poor performance, following due process as outlined in the company’s Conditions of Service. IBEDC also refuted claims of casualization, stating that duties have been outsourced and that the company has consistently paid full salaries despite economic challenges. citeturn0search1
The unfolding situation has drawn parallels to recent events in Kaduna State, where the NLC condemned the mass dismissal of over 900 workers by the Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company (KEDC). In that instance, the NLC’s Head of Media, Benson Upah, criticized KEDC’s management for what he termed an illegal and unjust process, warning of escalated responses if the affected workers were not reinstated. citeturn0search0
As the standoff continues, the NLC has expressed its readiness to engage in dialogue with IBEDC’s management to find an amicable resolution. Martin emphasized the union’s preference for negotiation over confrontation but remained steadfast in the pursuit of justice for the affected workers.
“We are not here to cause trouble, but we are determined to fight for the rights of our members. We are ready for dialogue, but we will not back down until our demands are met,” Martin stated.
The protest has undeniably disrupted daily activities, with significant traffic congestion leaving many commuters stranded. As tensions escalate, all eyes are on IBEDC’s next move and whether a resolution can be reached to restore normalcy and address the pressing concerns of the workforce.
The broader implications of this dispute underscore the fragile state of labor relations within Nigeria’s electricity distribution sector. The outcome of this confrontation may set a precedent for how similar disputes are handled in the future, highlighting the critical need for transparent and fair labor practices in the industry.
