NLC Threatens 48‑Hour Shutdown at AEDC Over Mass Sacking of 900 Workers in Abuja
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a stern 48‑hour ultimatum to the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC), threatening a full shutdown of operations if the company does not address the controversial disengagement of nearly 900 workers.
On Tuesday, labour leaders led by NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero staged a dramatic protest at the AEDC headquarters in Abuja, accusing the utility giant of implementing the mass sack under false pretences and without sufficient justification.
Ajaero explained that the dispute originated about six months ago when AEDC management initially claimed the job cuts would affect only workers nearing retirement age—a claim the NLC initially accepted. However, union investigations later revealed that many of those affected were far from retirement, with some having served only two to three years, prompting outrage among workers and the labour movement.
Tension escalated when NLC representatives arrived for a scheduled meeting with AEDC management but found the company’s Managing Director absent, leading the union to call off the engagement and mobilise workers on site.
The union warned that if the issue is not resolved within 48 hours, staff will stay home, effectively crippling electricity supply in the Federal Capital Territory and potentially beyond. Ajaero further stated that any shutdown action would extend to all AEDC operational zones if management fails to respond.
Beyond the immediate dispute, Ajaero used the protest to criticise the broader power sector, accusing some distribution companies of exploiting consumers, failing to deliver reliable electricity, and ignoring labour laws. He also condemned power generation firms for seeking massive government bailouts while neglecting their obligations to workers.
The NLC is demanding that AEDC publish the full list of disengaged workers, including their years of service and reasons for termination, for public scrutiny. The union also raised broader concerns about poor working conditions, lack of promotions, and unresolved welfare issues within the company.
Ajaero declared that continued disregard for labour laws could trigger wider unrest across the power sector, urging workers to remain united and vigilant in defending their rights.
