Mohammed Shosanya
The Kaduna Electric,has condemned the ongoing strike action embarked upon by members of the Nigerian Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE),saying the action is unjustified.
Nigerians should also condemned the union’s action,which is worsened by the fact that it commenced during the month of Ramadan,a statement said on Tuesday.
“For the union to choose this path at the very start of the Holy month of Ramadan and inflict more discomfort on hapless Nigerians by embarking on an ill-advised strike and forcing staff from carrying out their legitimate duties says a lot about its motive”,Abdulazeez Abdullahi,Head, Corporate Communication,Kaduna Electric said in the statement sent to Premium News.
The statement explained that the union’s demand for payment of outstanding pension arrears which is the supposed justification for forcing misery on citizens is part of the historic debts accumulated under two previous managements.
The statement expressed displeasure over the failure of the union to prioritize the payments then until now,adding that the development was a clear indication that the union has other motives yet unknown to the power company.
According to the statement,since his assumption of office in January 2024,the administrator has demonstrated willingness to work with the unions to move Kaduna Electric forward.
It also said,that the administrator has held series of meetings with them to get their buy-in into his plans to turn the company around.
It therefore beggars belief why NUEE has chosen the route of industrial action instead of coming round to discuss whatever perceived grievance it may have,the statement said.
It added:”The management’s commitment to employee welfare is unwavering, and we have consistently engaged in open dialogue to address concerns. It is on record that staff enjoyed a salary increment in the CEO’s very first month in office in addition to a commitment to pay salaries when due. He has also committed to a plan to offset all liabilities as more resources become available.
“This strike action does no good to anyone but some individuals whose motive is still unclear. We urge our esteemed customers to disregard it and go about their dealings with us unhindered.”
