The Oyo State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has shut down the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) headquarters in Ibadan in protest over the mass dismissal of over 3,000 workers and the non-payment of the new national minimum wage.
The protest, led by NLC State Chairman Kayode Martin, took place at IBEDC’s office located in the Challenge-Dugbe area of Ibadan. Demonstrators arrived in large numbers, carrying placards with messages condemning the company’s actions while chanting solidarity songs.
The protest caused significant disruptions, as workers completely blocked the entrance to IBEDC, preventing staff from entering the premises. The situation also led to major traffic congestion, leaving many commuters stranded.
According to NLC, IBEDC recently dismissed over 3,000 employees without prior notice or justifiable reasons. The union also accused the company of:
Outsourcing jobs to private contractors who exploit workers by paying below the minimum wage.
Arbitrarily deducting salaries of outsourced employees without proper explanation.
Failing to implement the new national minimum wage for employees.
Speaking to journalists during the protest, Kayode Martin criticized IBEDC’s treatment of workers, stating:
“Over 3,000 workers have been thrown into the unemployment market without any valid reason. This is unacceptable. We demand justice for these workers and an end to the exploitation by IBEDC.”
The union presented a seven-point demand to IBEDC management, which includes:
1. Immediate reinstatement of all sacked workers.
2. Full implementation of the new national minimum wage.
3. Immediate payment of all outstanding Retirement Savings Account (RSA) contributions.
4. Regularization of all outsourced staff to prevent exploitation.
5. Freedom for workers to join and participate in labour unions without victimization.
6. Provision of adequate healthcare services for all employees.
7. Payment of outstanding allowances and benefits owed to staff.
The NLC also urged Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde to intervene in the crisis to prevent further escalation. The union warned that failure to meet their demands could lead to more aggressive industrial actions, potentially affecting power distribution in the region.
As of now, IBEDC has not issued an official response to the protest. However, labour leaders have vowed to continue their demonstration until their demands are met.
