Chinedum Elekwachi
Enugu Electricity Distribution Plc (EEDC), Awka District in Anambra state on Thursday protested unlawful arrest and illegal detention of staff.
The staff also protested inhumane treatment to staff, poor salary scheme below minimum wage, monitized slavery of staff, none increment of staff salaries and zero annual promotions.
As early as 8am, entrance to the power company was under lock and key, while customers who came to transact one business or another were seen standing stranded lamenting the sorry situation.
The SouthEasth/SouthSouth zone in a statement Identified persistent intimidation by EEDC’s Management through the police (SARS) to arrest and detain staff without justification as their greatest challenge.
The body said four members arrested on July 31, 2025 had been in detention, insisting established disciplinary processes must be followed rather than treating employees like armed robbers.
It recalled a 4-day protest carried out by the union targeted at securing the release of detained members with signed agreement to follow the Conditions of Service, but regretted that the issues resurfaced.
The statement reads, “As the representative of the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) for EEDC staff and electricity workers in Nigeria, including Anambra State, I bring to your attention the dire situation our members face.
Poor remuneration
“Despite their hard work, over 80% of our staff earn less than ₦60,000 monthly, with some salaries stagnant since 2014. The current economic hardship has worsened their struggles.
“Our greatest challenge is the persistent intimidation by EEDC’s Management who uses the police (SARS) to arrest and detain staff without justification.
“In August 2024, we staged a 4-day protest, securing the release of detained members and a signed agreement to follow the Conditions of Service. However, the issues have resurfaced.
“Specifically, four members were arrested on July 31st 2025 and remain detained, sparking protests from FIRSTPOWER Subco workers.
“We condemn fraudulent acts but insist on following established disciplinary processes, not treating employees like armed robbers.
“We’ve notified the EEDC Management, Commissioner of Police, and Director of DSS about our planned protest to address this blatant disregard for our rights.
“We request your assistance in amplifying our voice and bringing attention to our plight. We’ll share relevant documents for further context. Together, we can help liberate our members from this oppressive situation.”
