Electricity Workers in Katsina Embark on Indefinite Strike Over Unpaid Pensions

By Auwal Isah Musah

The National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) in Katsina has launched an indefinite strike action, demanding the payment of outstanding pension entitlements spanning over eight years.

The strike, which began on Wednesday, affects workers under the Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO) responsible for electricity supply in Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa states.

Speaking to Katsina Times, Comrade Sani Muhammad Ahmad, the union’s coordinator for the Northwest zone, disclosed that the decision to shut down their Katsina office, located along Kano Road, was taken after several failed attempts to resolve the issue with the company.

"Our members are being owed at least 100 months of pension deductions. This is why we have resolved to embark on an indefinite strike until our entitlements are paid," Comrade Sani stated, as he locked the office premises with a padlock.

He criticized KEDCO for allegedly withholding funds that rightfully belong to the workers, insisting that the company has the capacity to settle the debts but has refused to do so.

Comrade Sani assured fellow workers of the union’s commitment to continue the strike until their demands are met. He also apologized to the public for the expected power outages, urging them to understand that the workers are only fighting for their legitimate rights.

"We too have families that depend on us, just like everyone else," he added, appealing for public support and patience.