Kaduna is quite tense due to the ongoing strike by the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE). The workers are protesting against various grievances, including the dismissal of a significant number of staff, non-payment of pensions, and poor working conditions. The strike has already caused widespread power outages in Kaduna and surrounding areas, with no clear resolution in sight.
The union’s insistence on the payment of workers’ entitlements before disengagement has added to the tensions, especially since the company reportedly agreed to withdraw the dismissal letters in a meeting but later reneged on that commitment. This disagreement between the union and management has further complicated matters. The support of the Senior Staff Association of Electricity and Allied Companies (SSAEAC) for the strike emphasizes how serious the issue is, particularly since it’s affecting people’s daily lives without an immediate end in sight.
On the other hand, Kaduna Electric’s response highlights their ongoing transformation process, but the lack of clarity around the workers’ concerns and how they will be addressed is fueling frustration. It’s clear that finding a resolution that balances the company’s needs with workers’ rights and customer satisfaction will be crucial in ending the crisis.