OYO – The Oyo State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has shut down operations at the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) in protest against the recent dismissal of over 3,000 employees.
Led by its Chairman, Kayode Martin, union members barricaded the entrance to the IBEDC office, bringing activities to a standstill and causing significant traffic congestion in the Challenge to Dugbe area of Ibadan.
Chanting solidarity songs, the protesters demanded the immediate reinstatement of the sacked workers and the payment of the national minimum wage. Martin condemned IBEDC and its outsourcing agents, accusing them of exploiting workers through unpaid wages and arbitrary salary deductions.
The NLC chairman stated that over 3,000 workers had been unfairly dismissed without any justifiable reason. He emphasized that these employees had dedicated their time and energy to the company, only to be treated as disposable. He further criticized the outsourcing agents for refusing to pay the minimum wage and making unjust deductions from workers’ salaries.
The union presented seven key demands to IBEDC management, including the implementation of the new minimum wage, payment of retirement savings account (RSA) backlogs, regularization of outsourced staff, an end to the denial of union membership, improved healthcare services, and the payment of outstanding allowances and compensations.
Martin called on Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, and other stakeholders to intervene, warning that the mass dismissal of workers could worsen the already alarming unemployment rate and pose security threats in the state. He urged the IBEDC management to engage in dialogue with the union to resolve the matter peacefully, stating that while the workers were not out to cause trouble, they would not back down until their demands were met.
The protest caused major traffic disruptions, leaving many commuters stranded. As of the time of this report, IBEDC had yet to issue a formal response to the NLC’s demands.
By Damilola Adeleke| February 19, 2025
Adeleke Damilola (ACTION) is a versatile content writer with expertise in news writing and a seasoned media professional and broadcast specialist. Currently serving as News Editor for DNews Info, Damilola is also the CEO of the ACTION brand, committed to shaping lives and establishing a legacy of excellence for present and future generations.
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