Kaduna Electric has confirmed sacking of 450 of its employees, leading to an industrial action that threw customers into darkness.

In a statement on Tuesday, the electricity distribution company said the decision was made in response to significant operational and financial challenges that have hindered the company’s ability to meet its market and operational obligations.

The PUNCH reports that the workers union embarked on Monday, with the National Union of Electricity Employees insisting that the company must withdraw the disengagement letters issued to “900 workers. “

The Chairman of NUEE, Kaduna State Council, Comrade Sheyin Wakili, clarified that the union was not against the layoffs themselves but opposed the manner in which they were executed without settling the entitlements of the affected workers.

“We are not against the management’s decision to disengage staff, but we reject the failure to fulfil legal obligations. The conditions of service stipulate that disengaged staff must receive their full entitlements, which the management has refused to pay,” Wakili said.

Clarifying the situation in a statement on Tuesday, the management said it disengaged 450 workers and not 900.

“The company acknowledges public concerns and seeks to provide accurate information regarding these developments.

Kaduna Electric’s management has initiated a comprehensive transformation exercise to ensure the company’s long-term sustainability.

“Contrary to claims by labour unions that 900 staff members were affected, the company confirms that ‘Services No Longer Required’ letters were issued to 450 employees. This decision was made in response to significant operational and financial challenges that have hindered the company’s ability to meet its market and operational obligations,” the statement said.

It maintained that the restructuring, though difficult, is a necessary step to align the company with current market realities and create a more efficient workforce.

The management emphasised that the right-sizing initiative alongside capital investment is crucial for implementing impactful measures to improve operations and ensure sustainability.

The DisCo regretted the power outages caused by the indefinite strike, saying it remains committed to resolving the dispute.

“Kaduna Electric expressed regret over the prolonged power outage caused by the industrial action, which lasted over 24 hours to some of our customers across our franchise. The company remains committed to resolving labour disputes amicably and restoring normal operations as quickly as possible.

“Management also thanked security agencies for their support during the industrial action, ensuring the safety of personnel and facilities during this challenging period,” the statement read further.

The energy firm reassured its customers of its dedication to providing reliable power supply and apologised for the inconvenience caused by the outage, stressing that it remains focused on overcoming its current challenges and emerging stronger to better serve its customers and stakeholders.

Kaduna Electric’s franchise area includes the states of Kaduna, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara.