BREAKING: Kaduna electric restores power after agreement with labour unions

 Electricity has been restored across Kaduna State and other franchise areas of Kaduna Electric following an agreement reached between the company’s management and its in-house labour unions.

The resolution came after a crucial meeting convened by Governor Uba Sani on Friday at Sir Kashim Ibrahim House. The meeting, which lasted until around 8 p.m., was aimed at resolving the industrial action that led to a statewide blackout.

The strike, which began last Sunday, was triggered by Kaduna Electric’s decision to dismiss 444 workers, causing widespread power outages in Kaduna, Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kebbi states. However, following the discussions, both parties reached a compromise, leading to the immediate restoration of power.

Governor Uba Sani pledged to act as a guarantor to ensure a fair resolution for all stakeholders, a move that was instrumental in breaking the deadlock. In response, the unions suspended their strike, allowing Kaduna Electric to resume operations.

“The unions commended the governor for his intervention and also appreciated the management, under the leadership of Dr. Umar Abubakar Hashidu, for its commitment to advancing Kaduna Electric,” the resolution stated.

The meeting underscored the need for better communication between management and the unions, emphasizing that the dispute arose due to a breakdown in dialogue. Both parties were urged to embrace a give-and-take approach in resolving future disagreements.

The resolution was signed by key stakeholders, including Dr. Umar Abubakar Hashidu, Managing Director of Kaduna Electric; Comrade Wisdom Nwachukwu, Vice President (Distribution) of the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE); and Comrade Rilwanu Shehu, Deputy President (North) of the Senior Staff Association of Electricity and Allied Companies (SSAEAC).

Other signatories included Comrade Muhammed Musa, Deputy President (North) of NUEE; Comrade Haruna Ahmed Tinau, Deputy Secretary General (North); and Engr. Idris Ahmed Idris, Managing Director of Kaduna Power Supply Company.