The National Union of Electricity Employees, Kaduna state Council, has issued a stern warning of an impending indefinite strike starting from 12 midnight on Tuesday, citing concerns related to non-remittance of pension funds and promotions, among other grievances.

In a notice sent to the leadership of the Nigerian Labour Congress in Kaduna and signed by the Secretary, Comrade Ado Ali, the union accused the management of Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company of failing to remit pension contributions to over 3000 staff RSA accounts for over 72 months.

The notice outlined the reasons for the strike: “non-remittance of pension contribution to over 3000 staff RSA accounts for over 72 months, compiled non-payment of death benefits to the families of deceased staff, lack of enablers to company staff, promotion suspension for over eight years, non-payment of the 35k Federal government approved wage award to company staff, wrongful disengagement of seven on the Zaria accident, and lack of proper medical services to staff.”

Responding to the threat, the Head of Corporation Communication at Kaduna Electric, Abdulazeez Abdullahi, expressed strong disapproval, calling the action by NUEE unjustified and worthy of condemnation.

“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 remarked.

He contested the union’s demands, particularly the outstanding pension arrears, highlighting that they are part of historic debts accumulated under two previous managements.

Abdulazeez emphasized the current administration’s commitment to employee welfare, pointing out that since January 2024, the Administrator has engaged in open dialogue and taken steps to address concerns.

Abdulazeez urged customers to ignore the impending strike and continue with their regular activities without hindrance.