From Isaac Anumihe, Abuja
Staff of Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC), under the auspices of the Senior Staff Association of Electricity and Allied Companies (SSAEAC), have threatened to down tools following the deaths of seven workers in one month.
In a statement, the union attributed the deaths to the collapse of health services in the company.
Other reasons for their planned action include non-payment of the 2024 productivity bonus, non-payment of 18 months of pension deductions, non-implementation of the national minimum wage, and an inconclusive review of conditions of service.
Additionally, the workers are protesting the non-regularisation and improper placement of staff, non-confirmation of staff on acting appointments, refusal to conduct promotions since 2013, non-implementation of a career path, non-remittance of third-party deductions (union check-off dues), refusal to fund Business Districts, and non-procurement of operational materials.
In a letter addressed to the Managing Director/CEO of AEDC, Deputy General Secretary (Corporate Communications), Rosemary Odeh, stated that the tremendous improvement in cash collections of over N98 billion in the last three months, resulting in new revenue peaks and other achievements, was made possible through the commitment and dedication of the entire workforce.
Odeh pointed out that, in view of the unmet demands, the management has been given one week to resolve the outstanding grievances, or the workers would embark on an indefinite strike.
“Suffice to state that the tremendous improvement in cash collections of over N98 billion in the last three months, resulting in the attainment of new revenue peaks and other achievements, was made possible through the commitment and dedication of the entire workforce.
“Management is hereby put on notice to resolve all the outstanding issues within one week of receipt of this letter without any further notice, as this will no longer be accepted by our association.
“Consequently, all officers are hereby directed to be on standby to resume with the earlier notice of November 5, 2024,” Odeh said.