Electricity workers have said they picked the headquarters of the Kano Electricity Distribution Plc (KEDCO) in Kano over alleged non-remittance of pension deductions and poor staff welfare.
The Deputy President General (North) of Senior Staff Association of Electricity and Allied Companies (SSAEAC), Comrade Rilwanu Shehu, who led the protest, accused the management of the power company of constantly failing to honour agreements reached with workers over the years.
According to him, pension deductions to the tune of over 90 months had not been remitted, while other entitlements, including performance appraisals, promotions, allowances, and conducive working conditions, were being neglected.
He also alleged that many staff members were working in dilapidated environments without adequate tools, a situation he said was undermining productivity and staff morale.
The Vice President of National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE), Comrade Ado Gaya, explained that the action was sequel to the breakdown of talks between the unions and KEDCO management after the workers’ ultimatum expired.
He accused the management of selective promotions, non-payment of the 13th-month allowance, and irregular implementation of staff appraisals.
He added that pension deductions were being made without remittance to pension fund administrators.
Meanwhile, Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO), assured customers within its franchise that it is close to resolving the ongoing dispute with its workers, expressing optimism that the strike action by workers will soon come to an end.
The Managing Director of the Company, Dr. Abubakar Shuaibu Jemaita who addressed newsmen over the development, said constructive engagements with workers’ representatives have been intensified to restore normal operations across its franchise areas.
Abubakar Shuaibu Jemaita explained that KEDCO management focused on addressing key concerns raised by the workers union, stressing that dispute arose from issues bordering on welfare, which it said were inherited .
Shuaibu Jemaita stated that Management recognizes the importance of its workforce and is determined to reach a mutually beneficial resolution.
He faulted the attitudes of the electricity workers union by shutting down power and throwing millions of its customers on darkness.
He revealed that “we agreed that we will be paying pension and one month arrears, and out of the total money we have paid 15 out of 19 schedules”
He said: “We have assured that payment of legacy debt inherited in 2019 alongside the January 2026 salary and already we have fully commenced by paying up to 15 out of 19 months, so why the shutting down.”
