NLC condemns mass sack at KEDC, demands recall of over 900 workers

From Adanna Nnamani, Abuja

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has thrown its weight behind the protesting workers of Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company (KEDC), commending them for the peaceful conduct of their strike despite what it described as repeated acts of provocation by the company’s management.

In a statement issued on Thursday, which was signed by the NLC’s spokesperson, Benson Upah, the Congress criticised KEDC for what it termed a blatant disregard for due process in the recent mass dismissal of over 900 workers.

The workers’ body called on the management of KEDC to “come off its high horse” and engage in meaningful dialogue, and urged it to unconditionally recall the sacked workers to ensure industrial harmony and the restoration of services within its operational areas.

The Congress further hinted at escalating the protest, announcing plans to mobilise its affiliates in Kaduna for solidarity actions.

“We would want to commend the protesting workers of Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company for peacefully conducting their strike action in spite of repeated acts of violation and provocation by the management of KEDC.

“Our hearts are with them in this heroic struggle against illegality and injustice.

“KEDC acted against the rule and process of redundancy. The sheer number (over 900 workers in one fell swoop) is equally mind-boggling.

“Accordingly, we call on the management of Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company to come off its high horse and toe the path of reason or dialogue by unconditionally recalling the sacked workers.

“This will ensure industrial harmony and restoration of services in its area of jurisdiction.

“Resorting to self-justification in a clear case of a faulty process is neither helpful nor reasonable.

“Prolonging this act of aggression clearly runs the risk of a major sympathy action.

“Congress will not hesitate to give the ongoing action the needed bite if KEDC management does not see the wisdom behind an early truce.

“For a start, we call on all affiliates in Kaduna to join the protest on a solidarity basis,” said the statement.