EEDC: Electricity Workers Protest Intimidation, Poor Working Conditions
By Chizoba Njaka
Workers at FIRSTPOWER Subco of Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) have taken to the streets in protest, citing alleged harassment, intimidation, and unlawful arrests by the company's management, with the backing of the Nigerian Police Force's Anti-Robbery Unit.
The Zonal Organising Secretary (ZOS) 2, South-East and South-South Zone, Comrade Ifeanyi Nweke disclosed this at a press briefing in Awka, raised concerns about the dire working conditions and intimidation faced by its members working with the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC).
Comrade Nweke explained that over 80 percent of the staff earn less than N60,000 monthly, with some salaries stagnant since 2014. The union alleged that EEDC management uses the police to arrest and detain staff without justification, a situation that has sparked protests among workers.
The workers, represented by the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE), demanded for the immediate release of four colleagues arrested on July 31st and held in detention ever since. According to the union, the arrests and detentions violate the Conditions of Service for Employees and agreements with the management.
While the union condemns any form of fraudulent activity within the company, they insist that alleged offenders should face established internal disciplinary processes, rather than being treated like armed robbers.
The union's protest highlights the growing tensions between workers and management at EEDC, with workers demanding better treatment and adherence to due process.