The Kaduna State Government has stepped in to mediate the industrial dispute between Kaduna Electric and its workers’ union, which has led to a four-day blackout in the state.
Deputy Governor Dr. Hadiza Balarabe met with representatives of the union and the company’s management at Sir Kashim Ibrahim Government House, urging both sides to find common ground.
She appealed to the union to restore electricity immediately, stressing the outage’s negative impact on homes, businesses, and security.
The National Vice President (Distribution) of the National Union of Electricity Employees, Comrade Wisdom Nwachukwu, clarified that while the union does not oppose downsizing, it demands due process and full payment of entitlements for affected workers.
Meanwhile, Kaduna Electric’s Managing Director, Malam Umar Abubakar Hashidu, defended the decision to lay off 444 workers, citing efficiency and financial sustainability.
Senior government officials attended the meeting, and both parties agreed to further discussions with a third party.
The strike, which began on Monday, protests planned job cuts, unpaid pensions, lack of promotions, and non-implementation of the 2024 National Minimum Wage.
While labor unions claim 900 workers face dismissal, Kaduna Electric clarified that only 450 received termination letters.
